Directives Published April 2025

Directive Watch is your source for clear, concise explanation of Presidential directives and executive orders issued by the White House.

We break down the technical legal jargon of each directive, explaining in plain language what it means and its potential impact.

Summary

  • 15th Apr 25 The President initiated a Section 232 investigation into the national security implications of processed critical mineral imports and their derivative products. View
  • 15th Apr 25 Executive Orders 12072 and 13006 were revoked to restore flexibility in federal office space management and prioritize cost-effectiveness. View
  • 15th Apr 25 An investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 was initiated to determine the effects on national security of processed critical mineral and derivative product imports. View
  • 15th Apr 25 This executive order directed multiple federal agencies to implement changes to lower prescription drug prices, reform Medicare and Medicaid drug pricing, and increase competition in the pharmaceutical market. View
  • 15th Apr 25 The President issued an executive order reforming the Federal Acquisition Regulation to improve efficiency and reduce regulatory burdens in government procurement. View
  • 15th Apr 25 The President issued a memorandum directing federal agencies to implement stricter measures to prevent ineligible aliens from receiving Social Security Act benefits and to enhance fraud prevention efforts. View
  • 15th Apr 25 The President directed the modernization of environmental permitting technology through the creation of an action plan, an innovation center, and the adoption of new data and technology standards across federal agencies. View
  • 11th Apr 25 The President issued a memorandum directing the military to secure the Southern border, granting them jurisdiction over specified federal lands and outlining a phased implementation plan. View
  • 11th Apr 25 The president clarified exceptions for semiconductors under Executive Order 14257, defined the HTSUS codes for those exceptions, and ordered the refund of any wrongly collected tariffs. View
  • 10th Apr 25 The President increased tariffs on Chinese imports, temporarily suspended certain tariffs on other countries demonstrating trade reciprocity, and implemented adjustments to address retaliatory measures. View
  • 10th Apr 25 Security clearances were suspended for Miles Taylor and associated individuals; investigations were launched into Mr. Taylor's actions as a government employee. View
  • 10th Apr 25 The President revoked Christopher Krebs's security clearance and ordered a review of his and CISA's actions, citing alleged censorship and abuse of power. View
  • 10th Apr 25 The President ordered the suspension of Susman Godfrey employee security clearances, reviewed government contracts with the firm and affiliated entities, and limited official interactions between federal employees and Susman Godfrey. View
  • 10th Apr 25 The President directed the reform of the defense acquisition system, implemented a review of major defense acquisition programs, and initiated plans to modernize the defense acquisition workforce. View
  • 10th Apr 25 The President issued an executive order establishing a plan to revitalize the US maritime industry, focusing on national security enhancement, economic growth, and fair trade practices. View
  • 9th Apr 25 Federal agencies were directed to repeal unlawful regulations, prioritizing those conflicting with recent Supreme Court decisions, with a report on non-repealed regulations submitted within 30 days. View
  • 9th Apr 25 Federal agencies were directed to review and potentially rescind anti-competitive regulations to stimulate economic growth and competition. View
  • 9th Apr 25 The President issued an executive order implementing a zero-based regulatory budgeting process for energy-related regulations, resulting in the scheduling of reviews and potential removal of many regulations by a certain date. View
  • 9th Apr 25 The President ordered a review of federal regulations to identify and potentially remove those deemed anti-competitive, aiming to promote economic growth and competition. View
  • 9th Apr 25 The President ordered reforms to the foreign defense sales system to improve accountability and transparency, streamline decision-making, and strengthen alliances through more efficient military equipment transfers. View
  • 9th Apr 25 The president proclaimed April 9, 2025, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day to honor the service and sacrifice of former prisoners of war. View
  • 9th Apr 25 President Trump proclaimed April 6-12, 2025, as National Crime Victims' Rights Week, urging support for victims and stronger public safety measures. View
  • 9th Apr 25 The President amended reciprocal tariffs and increased duties on low-value imports from China in response to Chinese retaliatory tariffs. View
  • 8th Apr 25 The President issued an executive order to reinvigorate the American coal industry, removing regulatory barriers, promoting coal exports, and prioritizing coal leasing on federal lands. View
  • 8th Apr 25 A two-year exemption from stricter emission standards for certain coal-fired power plants was granted. View
  • 8th Apr 25 The President issued an executive order directing the Attorney General to identify and challenge state-level laws hindering domestic energy production, based on concerns about national security and economic interests. View
  • 8th Apr 25 The President issued an executive order to streamline processes for ensuring the reliability and security of the United States electric grid, developing a methodology for analyzing reserve margins, and establishing a protocol for identifying and retaining critical generation resources. View
  • 7th Apr 25 A memorandum was issued directing CFIUS to review the proposed U.S. Steel acquisition by Nippon Steel, assessing national security risks and recommending mitigation measures. View
  • 4th Apr 25 The President extended the TikTok enforcement delay until June 19, 2025, instructed the Department of Justice to refrain from enforcement during that time, and asserted exclusive federal authority over the Act's enforcement. View
  • 4th Apr 25 President Trump proclaimed April 2025 as National Donate Life Month, highlighting the importance of organ donation and encouraging public registration. View
  • 4th Apr 25 President Trump proclaimed April 2025 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing child safety and condemning child abuse. View
  • 4th Apr 25 President Trump issued a proclamation declaring April 2025 as Cancer Control Month, calling on Americans to observe it with related programs and activities. View
  • 4th Apr 25 President Trump proclaimed April 2025 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, linking the initiative to border security measures and emphasizing the administration's actions to combat violent crime. View
  • 3rd Apr 25 New duties were imposed on low-value imports from China to combat the synthetic opioid crisis by eliminating the de minimis exemption and requiring carriers to remit duties to CBP. View
  • 2nd Apr 25 A national emergency was declared and a reciprocal tariff policy was implemented to address large and persistent US goods trade deficits. View
  • 2nd Apr 25 President Trump proclaimed April 2, 2025 as World Autism Awareness Day, calling upon Americans to increase awareness and support for individuals with autism. View
  • 1st Apr 25 The President sent numerous nominations to the Senate for confirmation across various executive branch departments and agencies. View
  • 1st Apr 25 The President issued an order to combat unfair pricing and ticketing practices in the live entertainment market by enforcing existing laws, promoting transparency, and investigating potential illegal activities. View

Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

President Trump's order initiates a Section 232 investigation into the national security risks posed by the United States' reliance on foreign sources for processed critical minerals and their derivative products.

The investigation will assess supply chain vulnerabilities, market distortions caused by foreign producers, and the impact on the domestic manufacturing and defense industrial bases.

Recommendations may include tariffs, import restrictions, and measures to incentivize domestic production to bolster national security and economic resilience.

Restoring Common Sense to Federal Office Space Management

Published: Tue 15th Apr 25

This presidential order revokes Executive Orders 12072 and 13006, which previously mandated that federal agencies prioritize central business districts when selecting office space.

The rationale is that these previous orders hampered cost-effectiveness and efficient government operations.

The new order aims to restore common sense to federal office space management by allowing agencies to choose cost-effective facilities, thereby improving taxpayer value and prioritizing mission success.

The Administrator of General Services is tasked with updating related regulations to reflect this change.

Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

President Trump issued an executive order initiating a Section 232 investigation into the national security implications of US dependence on foreign sources for processed critical minerals and their derivative products.

The order emphasizes the importance of these materials for both national defense and economic security, citing vulnerabilities in global supply chains and the potential for market manipulation by foreign producers.

The investigation will assess the impact of imports on national security and recommend actions, including the possibility of tariffs and other import restrictions, to mitigate risks and strengthen domestic production.

Lowering Drug Prices by Once Again Putting Americans First

Published: Tue 15th Apr 25

President Trump's executive order aims to significantly lower prescription drug prices for Americans.

The order criticizes the Inflation Reduction Act for insufficient savings and negative impacts on seniors' healthcare coverage.

To address this, the order directs various federal agencies to take actions like reforming Medicare drug price negotiations, stabilizing Part D premiums, and better controlling middleman prescription drug markups.

It also seeks to increase competition by accelerating generic drug approvals and streamlining drug importation.

Restoring Common Sense to Federal Procurement

Published: Tue 15th Apr 25

This executive order aims to reform the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to create a more efficient and effective government procurement system.

The order addresses the FAR's excessive length and complexity, which negatively impact efficiency and cost, citing reports from the Senate and expert panels.

It mandates a review and amendment of the FAR within 180 days, focusing on retaining only essential provisions.

Further, the order requires agencies to align their supplemental regulations and promotes the use of expedited acquisition methods while implementing a four-year regulatory sunset provision to ensure ongoing review of regulations.

Preventing Illegal Aliens from Obtaining Social Security Act Benefits

This presidential memorandum tackles the issue of illegal aliens obtaining Social Security Act benefits.

It directs several agencies, including the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Homeland Security, to implement measures to ensure only eligible individuals receive benefits.

Key actions include promulgating guidance to prevent improper payments, strengthening fraud prosecution efforts via Special Assistant United States Attorneys, and improving data management to identify deceased beneficiaries.

The memorandum emphasizes compliance with applicable law and the importance of preventing fraud, waste, and abuse.

Updating Permitting Technology for the 21st Century

This Presidential memorandum addresses inefficiencies in the environmental permitting process for infrastructure projects.

It mandates the modernization of technology used for environmental review and permitting, setting deadlines for the creation of a comprehensive action plan, a dedicated innovation center, and the adoption of new data and technology standards across involved agencies.

The goal is to accelerate project approval times while maintaining review quality and transparency.

Military Mission for Sealing the Southern Border of the United States and Repelling Invasions

This Presidential Memorandum directs the military to take a more active role in securing the US Southern border.

It grants the Department of Defense jurisdiction over certain Federal lands to facilitate border security operations, including construction and surveillance.

The memorandum details phased implementation, starting in a limited sector before expanding, while clarifying that actions are consistent with existing laws and subject to budgetary approvals.

Clarification of Exceptions Under Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as Amended

President Trump issued a memorandum clarifying exceptions under Executive Order 14257, concerning tariffs imposed to rectify trade deficits.

The memorandum specifically defines 'semiconductors' under the order, listing the relevant Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) headings and subheadings, to ensure that this critical industry is not affected by the tariffs.

The memorandum further mandates the modification of the HTSUS to reflect these exceptions and directs the refund of any duties already collected on these exempted items.

Finally, the memorandum reiterates the authorization given to appropriate agencies to utilize necessary powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to ensure the proper execution of the executive order.

Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Trading Partner Retaliation and Alignment

Published: Thu 10th Apr 25

This Presidential action modifies reciprocal tariff rates, increasing duties on goods from China in response to retaliatory tariffs while temporarily suspending or reducing duties for over 75 other trading partners who have demonstrated a commitment to trade reciprocity and alignment with U.S. economic and national security priorities.

The action is justified to address large and persistent U.S. goods trade deficits that threaten national security and the economy.

Addressing Risks Associated with an Egregious Leaker and Disseminator of Falsehoods

This presidential memorandum directs the immediate suspension of security clearances held by Miles Taylor and associated individuals due to concerns about the unauthorized disclosure of classified information and the dissemination of falsehoods.

The Attorney General, Director of National Intelligence, and other relevant agency heads are instructed to take necessary actions.

A review of Taylor's activities as a government employee will be conducted by the Secretary of Homeland Security, with a report and recommendations to be submitted to the President.

Addressing Risks from Chris Krebs and Government Censorship

This presidential memorandum directs the immediate revocation of Christopher Krebs's security clearance and initiates a comprehensive review of both his activities and those of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under his leadership.

The actions are justified by allegations that Krebs abused his authority to suppress free speech, engaging in censorship and distorting public opinion concerning the 2020 election and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The review will evaluate Krebs’ conduct for any violations of federal suitability standards and unauthorized dissemination of classified information, ultimately leading to a report with recommendations for remedial actions.

Addressing Risks from Susman Godfrey

This Presidential Action targets Susman Godfrey LLP, alleging the firm's actions undermine national security, election integrity, and are racially discriminatory.

The order directs the immediate suspension of security clearances held by Susman Godfrey employees, reviews of government contracts with the firm or those affiliated with it, and limits official engagement between federal employees and Susman Godfrey personnel.

It aims to prevent taxpayer money from funding activities inconsistent with US interests and prioritizes national security and fairness.

Modernizing Defense Acquisitions and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base

The Presidential order mandates a comprehensive overhaul of the United States' defense acquisition system to accelerate procurement and revitalize the defense industrial base.

The order directs the Secretary of Defense to develop plans within specific timelines to expedite acquisitions, reform acquisition processes, modernize the defense acquisition workforce, and conduct a thorough review of major defense acquisition programs.

This includes reviewing acquisition workforce metrics, streamlining relevant regulations, and establishing field training teams to improve the use of innovative acquisition authorities.

The ultimate objective is to ensure the U.S. military possesses state-of-the-art warfighting capabilities.

Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance

President [Name] issued an executive order aimed at restoring American maritime dominance.

The order directs several federal agencies to develop a comprehensive Maritime Action Plan to revitalize the nation's shipbuilding and maritime industries.

Key initiatives include strengthening the maritime industrial base, addressing unfair trade practices from China, increasing mariner training and education, modernizing the United States Merchant Marine Academy, improving government procurement efficiency, and establishing a Maritime Security Trust Fund.

The order also seeks to engage allies and partners to align trade policies, and reduce dependence on adversaries.

Directing the Repeal of Unlawful Regulations

Published: Wed 9th Apr 25

This presidential memorandum orders federal agencies to swiftly repeal regulations deemed unlawful, based on recent Supreme Court rulings.

Agencies must complete a 60-day review, then repeal unlawful regulations using the Administrative Procedure Act's 'good cause' exception, justifying any exceptions.

A 30-day report on the review's findings is also required.

Reducing Anti-Competitive Regulatory Barriers

Published: Wed 9th Apr 25

This executive order initiates a comprehensive review of federal regulations to identify and eliminate those deemed anti-competitive. The process involves agencies reviewing their rules, submitting recommendations to the FTC and Attorney General, and soliciting public input.

The goal is to promote economic growth, competition, and innovation by reducing barriers to entry for new businesses.

Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting to Unleash American Energy

This presidential order mandates a review of energy-related regulations within specific federal agencies.

The order aims to streamline the regulatory process by instituting 'sunset' provisions, requiring periodic review and potential removal of existing regulations.

This initiative seeks to stimulate innovation and economic growth within the energy sector by reducing regulatory burdens deemed excessive or outdated, ultimately promoting what the order characterizes as needed economic progress.

Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

Published: Wed 9th Apr 25

This executive order directs federal agencies to review and identify regulations that hinder competition, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The order initiates a process for potentially rescinding or modifying these regulations, aiming to revitalize the American economy by removing anti-competitive barriers to market entry.

The process involves inter-agency cooperation, public input, and consideration of the impact on various aspects of the free market.

Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

This Presidential Action orders a comprehensive reform of the US foreign defense sales system to improve speed, accountability, and transparency.

The plan aims to streamline decision-making, reduce regulatory burdens, increase government-industry collaboration, and improve partner financing.

Key actions include developing priority partner and end-item lists, updating congressional notification processes, and creating a single electronic tracking system.

The goal is to strengthen alliances, revitalize the domestic defense industrial base, and reduce costs for both the US and its partners.

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2025

Published: Wed 9th Apr 25

President Donald J. Trump proclaimed April 9, 2025, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.

The proclamation honors the sacrifices of American service members who were prisoners of war, emphasizing the importance of caring for veterans and expressing the nation's gratitude for their service. It also includes remarks regarding the president's commitment to ending veteran homelessness and restoring peace through strength.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2025

Published: Wed 9th Apr 25

President Trump's proclamation designates April 6-12, 2025, as National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

The proclamation emphasizes the need to support crime victims while criticizing previous administrations' policies as contributing to rising crime rates and illegal immigration.

It calls for stronger law enforcement and tougher sentencing for repeat offenders, along with enhancing legal protections for officers.

The President pledges continued commitment to building a safer nation.

Amendment to Reciprocal Tariffs and Updated Duties as Applied to Low-Value Imports from the People’s Republic of China

Published: Wed 9th Apr 25

President Trump issued an executive order amending reciprocal tariffs and increasing duties on low-value imports from China.

This action, justified as a response to China's retaliatory tariffs imposed on US exports following the implementation of Executive Order 14257, modifies the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) to increase tariffs from 34% to 84% on specified goods.

Additionally, the order increases the ad valorem rate of duty and per-item duty on certain goods to prevent tariff circumvention.

Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241

This executive order prioritizes the revitalization of the American coal industry, emphasizing its role in national security and economic prosperity.

It directs federal agencies to remove regulatory obstacles to coal production, increase domestic coal use, and promote coal exports.

The order also seeks to incorporate coal more broadly into other sectors, such as powering artificial intelligence data centers and supplying the steel industry.

Multiple agencies are tasked with implementing these changes.

Rregulatory Relief for Certain Stationary Sources to Promote American Energy

President Trump issued a proclamation exempting certain coal-fired power plants from compliance with stricter emission standards for two years.

The rationale cited is that the required technology is not yet commercially available, and that forcing compliance would jeopardize the nation's energy security, the viability of the coal sector, and national security itself.

The exemption postpones enforcement until technologies become viable, maintaining existing emission standards during this period.

Protecting American Energy From State Overreach

This executive order directs the Attorney General to identify and challenge state and local laws deemed to unduly burden domestic energy production.

It cites concerns over national and economic security, federalism, and interstate commerce, arguing that these state-level policies inflate energy costs and contradict the administration's goal of energy dominance.

The order prioritizes addressing policies related to ‘climate change’ or ‘environmental, social, and governance’ initiatives.

The Attorney General is tasked with taking legal action and reporting back to the President within 60 days.

Strengthening the Reliability and Security of the United States Electric Grid

This executive order addresses the strain on the US electric grid caused by increased energy demand.

It aims to strengthen grid reliability, resilience, and security.

Key actions include streamlining processes for issuing orders under the Federal Power Act, developing a standardized methodology for analyzing reserve margins, and establishing protocols to retain critical generation resources.

The order emphasizes utilizing all available power generation resources to meet growing demand and prevent grid failure.

Review of Proposed United States Steel Corporation Acquisition

President Biden issued a memorandum ordering the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to conduct a thorough review of Nippon Steel's proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel.

This action, based on concerns about potential national security risks, mandates a de novo review by CFIUS, which must submit a recommendation within 45 days on whether proposed mitigation measures are sufficient.

The President's order builds upon a prior prohibition of the acquisition and reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary.

Extending the TikTok Enforcement Delay

This Presidential Action extends the enforcement delay of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, specifically targeting TikTok, until June 19, 2025.

The Department of Justice is instructed to take no enforcement action during this period and to issue guidance clarifying that no violations occurred during the delay.

The order emphasizes the Attorney General's exclusive authority to enforce the Act, preventing state or private actions.

Furthermore, it clarifies that the order does not create any new legal rights.

National Donate Life Month, 2025

Published: Fri 4th Apr 25

President Donald J. Trump's April 3, 2025, proclamation designates April 2025 as National Donate Life Month.

The proclamation emphasizes the critical need for organ donors, noting the significant number of people awaiting transplants and the lives saved through donation.

It urges all Americans to consider becoming organ donors and to share this decision with loved ones, providing methods for enrollment.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 2025

President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates April 2025 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The proclamation stresses the importance of protecting children, condemning child abuse and neglect, and emphasizing the role of strong families.

It also explicitly denounces what it characterizes as harmful gender ideology impacting children's well-being.

The President calls on all Americans to support efforts promoting children's safety and development.

Cancer Control Month, 2025

Published: Fri 4th Apr 25

President Donald J. Trump's April 3, 2025, proclamation designates April 2025 as Cancer Control Month.

The proclamation acknowledges the high incidence of cancer in the United States, celebrates survivors, and highlights ongoing efforts to improve cancer treatment and prevention, including advancements in medical technology and initiatives aimed at lowering healthcare costs.

The President calls upon Americans to engage in relevant programs and activities to commemorate the month.

National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, 2025

President Donald J. Trump's April 2025 proclamation designates April as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.

It links the issue to border security and illegal immigration, citing specific cases as evidence of an increase in sexual assault linked to immigration.

The proclamation emphasizes the administration's efforts to strengthen border security, combat human trafficking, and bring about justice for victims of such crimes.

Further Amendment to Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People’s Republic of China as Applied to Low-Value Imports

This presidential action amends previous orders to address the synthetic opioid crisis fueled by imports from China.

It eliminates the duty-free de minimis exemption for certain products from China, imposing either a 30% ad valorem or tiered specific duty on items valued under $800, depending on the method chosen by the transporter and enforced by the Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

The order requires carriers to remit duties to CBP and mandates a 90-day report assessing the action's impact on American industries.

Regulating Imports with a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits

President Trump declared a national emergency due to substantial and persistent US goods trade deficits, citing a lack of reciprocity in trade relationships, unfair trade practices by other countries and the negative impacts on US economic and national security.

The President issued an executive order imposing an initial 10% ad valorem duty on all imports, with higher duties for specific countries based on their trade practices.

The order included provisions for exceptions, modification based on later developments and reporting requirements to Congress.

This action aims to restore balance in global trade and strengthen domestic production.

World Autism Awareness Day, 2025

Published: Wed 2nd Apr 25

President Trump's proclamation designates April 2, 2025, as World Autism Awareness Day.

It acknowledges the rising prevalence of autism in the United States, emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention, and urges Americans to learn more about ASD and support those affected and their families.

The proclamation also cites the creation of the Make America Healthy Again Commission to address childhood disorders.

The White House announced a series of nominations sent to the Senate for confirmation.

These nominations cover various key positions across several departments and agencies, including the Departments of Defense, Army, Navy, Veterans Affairs, Labor, and Commerce, as well as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The nominees include individuals slated for Assistant Secretary roles, Chief Financial Officer positions, Inspector General, United States Attorney roles for various districts, and other critical leadership positions.

Combating Unfair Practices in the Live Entertainment Market

Published: Tue 1st Apr 25

This presidential order aims to curb unfair practices within the live concert and entertainment industries.

It addresses ticket scalping and price gouging, directing the Attorney General and Federal Trade Commission to enforce existing competition laws and the Better Online Tickets Sales Act.

The order also mandates price transparency in the ticket-buying process and requires a report within 180 days on the actions taken and necessary recommendations regarding future regulations or legislation.