The Trump administration’s attempt to block $20 billion in legally approved funding is a direct attack on Congress, our communities, and the rule of law 

In response, to recent comments from EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin that the Trump administration plans to block funds from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund’s National Clean Investment Fund and the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator programs, Evergreen Action Executive Director Lena Moffitt released the following statement: 

“This is not just an attack on clean energy investments—it’s a blatant violation of the constitution. Congress holds the sole authority to appropriate federal funds, and the EPA has been implementing the programs through a public and competitive process. This funding was authorized by Congress and passed into law to lower energy costs for families, create jobs, and drive investment in clean energy—particularly in underserved communities that need it most. Instead, the Trump team is once again trying to illegally slash programs meant to help American families to fund tax cuts for billionaires. 

“By clawing back this money, the Trump administration wouldn’t just stifle investments in clean energy—it would also raise energy costs for low-income Americans and halt job creation across the country. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund operates like a bank, designed to leverage billions in private investment to finance clean energy projects. This funding is not simply 'free money'—it is part of a carefully structured plan to finance energy-efficiency upgrades, renewable energy projects, and sustainable infrastructure with a return on investment in mind. This is a blatantly political move that would halt vital economic development in communities that have long been overlooked.

“Congress passed this funding and the law is clear: these funds must go where they are directed. The Trump administration’s repeated overreach makes a mockery of our government’s checks and balances, setting a dangerous precedent that threatens the rule of law and our democratic processes. The administration must stop this illegal interference and allow these critical funds to reach the communities and economies that depend on them.”