Department of Transportation scraps memos pushing ‘equity initiatives’
The Department of Transportation (DOT) has recently made a significant decision to scrap two memos from the Biden administration that were deemed to prioritize a “social justice and environmental agenda” over the core mission of the agency. The two memorandums, issued under Secretary Pete Buttigieg, outlined objectives such as “reconnecting communities” and incorporating disadvantaged and underrepresented groups in planning and design processes, as well as promoting new technologies like electric vehicle charging stations.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the need to refocus on building critical infrastructure projects that prioritize safety and efficiency. In a statement, he criticized the previous administration for attempting to push a “radical social and environmental agenda” on the American people, labeling it as federal overreach. This move by the DOT aligns with President Trump’s commitment to streamlining infrastructure development and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
The department specifically raised concerns about the memos’ focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting equity initiatives, which were seen as detracting from the primary goal of infrastructure development. The memos aimed to guide the allocation of funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 across the country, but are no longer available on the Federal Highway Administration website.
This decision to scrap the memos is not without precedent, as earlier scrutiny was directed towards them by the United States Chamber of Commerce in January 2023. The chamber, along with other industry groups, urged the Federal Highway Administrator to discard a memo titled “Policy on Using Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Resources to Build a Better America,” citing concerns about complicating infrastructure investments.
Moving forward, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s tenure is marked by a series of actions aimed at revising liberal policies within the transportation sector. This includes ordering a compliance audit of the California High-Speed Rail project and advocating for the termination of the Manhattan congestion tolls program. Additionally, efforts are underway in Congress to eliminate electric vehicle initiatives within the United States Postal Service.
Overall, the DOT’s decision to scrap the memos reflects a commitment to refocusing on core infrastructure priorities and ensuring that taxpayer-funded projects are efficiently and effectively implemented. By prioritizing safety, efficiency, and the needs of American communities, the department aims to advance critical infrastructure projects that benefit the nation as a whole.
