An Incomplete Assessment: Congressional Inquiry Critiques Kamala Harris’s $5 Billion Electric School Bus Initiative

The Biden-Harris Administration’s ambitious goal to replace traditional diesel school buses with electric vehicles through the $5 billion Clean School Bus Program is facing serious scrutiny. A recent investigation by Congress has branded the initiative a failure, citing a series of setbacks and inconsistencies that threaten its effectiveness.

Program Criticism

Launched as part of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Clean School Bus Program was designed to significantly reduce emissions and enhance air quality for students across the United States. However, the initiative has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers, who argue that it has yet to deliver on its promises.

Slow Progress

Despite its introduction nearly three years ago, the program’s progress remains sluggish. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has rolled out two rounds of grants and rebates totaling close to $2 billion, yet none of the awarded funds have resulted in the deployment of electric buses in school districts nationwide. This slow rollout raises questions about the program’s overall viability.

Cost and Feasibility Issues

One of the primary hurdles facing the Clean School Bus Initiative is the steep cost associated with electric buses, which average over $370,000 each. This pricing presents a significant barrier for many school districts struggling with tight budgets. For the program to be economically feasible, grants need to cover the entire cost of the buses, which is not always the case.

Inspector General Report

A recent report from the EPA’s Inspector General published in December 2023 highlighted additional concerns regarding the program’s operation. The report pointed out troubling practices, including instances where third-party contractors applied for rebates on behalf of school districts without prior consent. Such actions have led to confusion and have delayed the overall implementation of the initiative.

Legislative Concerns

Prominent lawmakers, including Representatives Morgan Griffith, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, and Buddy Carter, have voiced their apprehension about the program’s sustainability and effectiveness. They emphasize the need for the EPA to take decisive action to rectify these issues and ensure that the program can fulfill its intended goals.

Impact on School Districts

For districts that have managed to obtain funding through the program, the financial benefits of electric buses are contingent upon significant subsidies. School administrators have reported that cost savings are only achievable when buses are provided for free under grants, as the hefty price tag remains prohibitive for most without such financial assistance.

Broader Administrative Challenges

The challenges faced by the Clean School Bus Program are indicative of larger issues within the Biden-Harris Administration’s attempts to roll out green energy and climate initiatives. If not addressed, the ongoing obstacles could undermine public confidence in the government’s capacity to manage and execute important environmental policies.

In conclusion, while the Clean School Bus Program aims to usher in a new era of sustainable transport for students, the findings from the congressional inquiry and related reports suggest that significant reforms are necessary for it to succeed. Lawmakers and administrators alike must confront these challenges head-on to realize the program’s vision of cleaner, safer school environments.