Rivian’s decision to pause its development of a massive facility in Morgan and Walton counties led members of a state senate subcommittee to explore ways to punish the electric vehicle maker.
Republican lawmakers grilled top state leaders about the surprise decision, with some urging a halt to infrastructure projects underway until Rivian starts construction. One said more oversight might be needed by lawmakers for huge economic development deals.
Rivian has said the factory near Social Circle remains a big piece of its future, though the company has not said when it will start construction. To conserve cash, Rivian will launch its R2 crossover in Normal, Illinois, in 2026, the year the Georgia plant had been expected to open.
Local governments and the state have already spent millions of dollars in land acquisition, road improvements and employee training systems. The state’s top economic development official said while he’s disappointed in the decision, the company remains committed to Georgia.
