In a surprising move, Ann Carlson, the acting administrator for the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is set to depart the Biden administration on January 31, 2023. Carlson, who played a crucial role in crafting regulations aimed at promoting electric vehicle (EV) use, is leaving her position earlier than expected, according to an internal agency memo obtained by Digital.
The announcement of Carlson’s departure has raised concerns about the future of EV regulations, as she was instrumental in strengthening child seat standards, requiring Automated Emergency Braking in vehicles, overseeing major recalls, and reducing roadway fatalities for six consecutive quarters. Her departure comes at a time when there is a growing demand for electric vehicles and companies are readjusting their production targets.
Carlson’s nomination to lead the NHTSA had failed in May, but she continued to lead the agency in an acting capacity. Her past climate activism and support for regulations targeting gas-powered vehicles had drawn strong opposition from Republicans. Despite the withdrawal of her nomination, Carlson remained committed to her role and crafted aggressive fuel economy standards to incentivize the purchase of EVs.
Republicans and energy advocates have expressed anger over Carlson’s continued leadership, arguing that she was serving as acting administrator contrary to the law. Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican from Texas, highlighted the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, which prohibits individuals who have been nominated for a vacant office from performing its duties in an acting capacity. He called for President Biden to nominate someone with safety experience to lead the NHTSA, rather than a “Green New Deal” activist.
Cruz even introduced a resolution in September, along with Senator Cynthia Lummis from Wyoming, to defund Carlson. He emphasized that her appointment violated the law and expressed concerns about her extreme agenda and radical record.
The departure of Carlson raises questions about the future direction of EV regulations in the Biden administration. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, it remains to be seen who will take over the leadership of the NHTSA and how they will shape the future of transportation in the United States.
Overall, Carlson’s departure signifies a potential shift in the Biden administration’s approach to electric vehicle regulations. It highlights the ongoing tensions between Republicans and Democrats on issues related to climate change, big corporations, and the role of government in promoting sustainable transportation. As the world watches the development of EV policies, the impact of Carlson’s departure will undoubtedly be closely monitored.
