Directives Published May 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
- 30th May 25 The President issued a sequestration order for Fiscal Year 2026, implementing automatic spending cuts in accordance with the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act. View
- 27th May 25 The President proclaimed May 28, 2025, as the 101st Anniversary of the United States Border Patrol, celebrating the agency's service and highlighting significant border security achievements under his administration. View
- 25th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 18-24, 2025, as World Trade Week, emphasizing an 'America First' approach to trade and highlighting efforts to protect American workers. View
- 25th May 25 A presidential proclamation was issued designating Memorial Day 2025 as a day of prayer for permanent peace, observing a National Moment of Remembrance, and requesting flags be flown at half-staff. View
- 25th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 2025 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, emphasizing the importance of public health and well-being, and highlighting previous efforts to support and protect children's and women's sports participation. View
- 23rd May 25 The President issued an executive order directing the accelerated development, deployment, and export of advanced nuclear reactor technologies to enhance national security, improve critical infrastructure resilience and promote American technological leadership in the field. View
- 23rd May 25 The executive order initiated reforms at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, streamlining reactor licensing, revising radiation limits, and reorganizing the commission structure to increase domestic nuclear energy production. View
- 23rd May 25 The President issued an executive order to reform nuclear reactor testing at the Department of Energy, streamlining the approval process, reforming environmental reviews, and establishing a pilot program for reactor construction. View
- 23rd May 25 The presidential actions directed multiple federal agencies to develop plans for revitalizing the domestic nuclear fuel cycle, expand the nuclear energy workforce, and fund new and upgraded nuclear power plant projects. View
- 23rd May 25 The executive order established guidelines for "Gold Standard Science" across federal agencies, promoting transparency and reproducibility in scientific research and decision-making. View
- 22nd May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 22, 2025 as National Maritime Day, recognizing the U.S. Merchant Marine’s contributions to national defense and the economy. View
- 20th May 25 President Trump signed the 'TAKE IT DOWN' Act (S. 146) into law, criminalizing the distribution of nonconsensual intimate visual depictions and requiring online platforms to remove such content. View
- 16th May 25 The President proclaimed the third Saturday of May as Armed Forces Day, superseded a previous proclamation, and encouraged public acknowledgment of military service. View
- 16th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. View
- 16th May 25 The President proclaimed May 2025 as Jewish American Heritage Month, celebrating Jewish American contributions and condemning anti-Semitism. View
- 12th May 25 The President modified reciprocal tariff rates on Chinese goods, suspending certain tariffs for 90 days while imposing a 10% ad valorem rate on others. View
- 12th May 25 The President proclaimed May 15, 2025, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 11-17, 2025, as Police Week, and called on Americans to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies. View
- 12th May 25 The order directed federal agencies to implement most-favored-nation pricing for prescription drugs, addressing global price discrimination and seeking lower drug costs for American patients. View
- 9th May 25 The president rescinded water conservation requirements for several appliances and washing machines, directed a clarification of a state regulation waiver, and initiated a process for Congress to consider further legislative changes. View
- 9th May 25 The President established a National Center for Warrior Independence for homeless veterans, redirected funding, and initiated reforms to improve veteran care and accountability within the Department of Veterans Affairs. View
- 9th May 25 The President directed federal agencies to expedite efforts to prevent the spread of invasive carp into the Great Lakes, prioritizing the Brandon Road Interbasin Project and streamlining permitting processes. View
- 9th May 25 The President ordered a review of publication fees and mandated reports on publication times at the Office of the Federal Register, aiming to increase efficiency and reduce costs. View
- 9th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 9, 2025, as Military Spouse Day, recognizing the significant contributions and sacrifices of military spouses. View
- 9th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 11, 2025, as Mother's Day, acknowledging the contributions of mothers to families and the nation. View
- 9th May 25 The President issued an executive order to address overcriminalization in federal regulations by requiring agencies to report on criminal offenses, promote regulatory transparency, and establish guidelines for criminal referrals. View
- 9th May 25 Project Homecoming was established, offering financial incentives for illegal alien departure along with increased immigration enforcement. View
- 7th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 2025 as National Foster Care Month, recognizing the contributions of foster families and encouraging support for children in foster care. View
- 7th May 25 A presidential proclamation was issued designating May 8, 2025, as Victory Day for World War II, commemorating the Allied victory and honoring the fallen. View
- 5th May 25 The President ordered the streamlining of regulations to increase domestic pharmaceutical production, improve supply chain resilience, and expedite the approval process for new manufacturing facilities. View
- 5th May 25 The President ordered a halt to federal funding of dangerous gain-of-function research conducted by foreign entities, revised key policies to enhance oversight, and implemented a strategy for managing risks associated with non-federally funded research. View
- 5th May 25 A proclamation was issued designating May 4 through May 10, 2025, as National Small Business Week. View
- 5th May 25 A Presidential Proclamation declared May 4-10, 2025, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week to raise awareness and encourage preparedness for hurricanes. View
- 5th May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 2025 as National Mental Health Awareness Month. View
- 2nd May 25 President Trump proclaimed May 1, 2025, as Loyalty Day and Law Day, U.S.A., emphasizing the rule of law and American principles. View
- 2nd May 25 The President issued a proclamation declaring May 1, 2025, as a National Day of Prayer, encouraging Americans to observe this day with prayer and reflection. View
- 2nd May 25 A presidential proclamation designated May 3-4, 2025, as National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend and ordered the US flag to be flown at half-staff on May 4th in honor of the fallen. View
- 2nd May 25 Federal funding for NPR and PBS was ended via presidential order due to concerns about biased news coverage. View
- 1st May 25 The executive order established the Religious Liberty Commission to study religious freedom in the US and advise on protective measures, with a report due by July 4, 2026. View
President's order implements automatic spending cuts, or sequestration, of the federal budget for Fiscal Year 2026.
The order is based on the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act, referencing the Office of Management and Budget's May 30, 2025 report to determine the amount of budget reductions for each non-exempt account, effective October 1, 2025.
The cuts must adhere strictly to the Act's requirements and the OMB report specifications.
101st Anniversary of The United States Border Patrol
President Trump proclaims May 28, 2025, as the 101st anniversary of the United States Border Patrol.
The proclamation celebrates the agency's service and highlights the administration's success in reducing illegal immigration and drug trafficking following a declared national emergency at the southern border.
It details actions taken, including wall construction, policy changes, and increased deployments, leading to drastically reduced border encounters and fentanyl seizures.
The President honors the sacrifices made by Border Patrol agents and affirms continued support for their mission.
World Trade Week, 2025
President Trump's 2025 World Trade Week proclamation reaffirms a commitment to balanced and reciprocal trade that prioritizes American workers and industries.
It highlights the administration's actions, including tariffs and job training initiatives, to combat unfair trade practices and bring jobs back to the US. The proclamation declares May 18-24, 2025, as World Trade Week, celebrating the achievements of American trade, signaling a continued focus on an 'America First' trade policy.
Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's Memorial Day 2025 proclamation designates May 26th as a day of prayer for permanent peace.
It calls upon all Americans to observe a National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time and requests the lowering of flags to half-staff until noon.
The proclamation is rooted in a 1950 Congressional resolution requesting Presidential action for a day of prayer for peace.
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2025
President Trump proclaimed May 2025 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.
The proclamation emphasizes the importance of prioritizing public health and well-being, particularly regarding sports participation, especially among youth.
It highlights previous executive actions supporting children's participation in sports while simultaneously protecting women's sports.
The President calls on Americans to incorporate fitness and sports into daily life, aiming to create a healthier and stronger nation.
Deploying Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies for National Security
This executive order establishes a comprehensive policy to accelerate the development, deployment, and export of advanced nuclear reactor technologies for national security purposes.
It directs several federal agencies to implement specific programs, including deploying nuclear reactors at military bases and Department of Energy facilities, allocating resources for related research and development, and aggressively promoting American nuclear exports through diplomatic and financial initiatives.
The order also emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations and seeks to streamline permits and approvals.
Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
President Trump's executive order directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to undergo significant restructuring and regulatory reform.
The order aims to accelerate the licensing and deployment of new nuclear reactors, expand US nuclear energy capacity, and re-establish American global leadership in nuclear energy.
Key components involve revising outdated safety models, streamlining licensing processes with fixed deadlines, and reorganizing the NRC to promote efficiency.
The stated goal is to improve energy independence, stimulate economic growth and create high-paying jobs while maintaining a high standard of nuclear safety.
Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing at the Department of Energy
President Trump issued an executive order to significantly accelerate advanced nuclear reactor development and deployment in the United States.
The order streamlines the Department of Energy's processes for reviewing and approving reactor projects, reformulates existing environmental review processes according to NEPA guidelines, and launches a pilot program to build reactors outside of national laboratories.
The goal is to have at least three reactors operational by July 4, 2026, leveraging decades of research to generate a reliable, diversified, and affordable energy supply and strengthen national security.
Reinvigorating the Nuclear Industrial Base
President Trump's executive order prioritizes the revitalization of the American nuclear energy industry.
The order mandates multiple actions by federal agencies, including developing a national policy for spent nuclear fuel management, expanding domestic uranium production and enrichment, utilizing the Defense Production Act to secure voluntary agreements with domestic nuclear energy companies, and funding the expansion of nuclear energy related workforce development.
The overarching goal is to achieve energy independence, strengthen national security, and establish American energy dominance.
Restoring Gold Standard Science
President Trump's May 23, 2025, executive order, "Restoring Gold Standard Science," aims to rebuild public trust in federal science.
The order mandates that agencies adopt "Gold Standard Science" principles, emphasizing reproducibility, transparency, and unbiased peer review.
It addresses concerns about misleading scientific information used in past government decisions, encouraging agencies to readily share data, acknowledge uncertainties, and apply a weight-of-evidence approach to analyses.
The order also reinstates pre-2021 scientific integrity policies, revokes certain related changes from 2021-2025, and promotes internal agency processes to investigate violations.
National Maritime Day, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's May 22, 2025 proclamation designates May 22nd as National Maritime Day, commemorating the S.S. Savannah's transatlantic voyage and honoring the United States Merchant Marine. The proclamation emphasizes the crucial role of merchant mariners in national defense, having supported military operations throughout history, and their importance to the American economy through global trade.
President Trump also highlights the recent Executive Order focused on restoring American maritime dominance through investment in shipbuilding, regulatory reform, and expanded training.
The proclamation concludes with a call for Americans to observe the day and display the national flag.
President Donald J. Trump Signed S. 146 into Law
On May 19, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed S. 146, the "TAKE IT DOWN" Act, into law.
This act criminalizes the intentional disclosure of nonconsensual intimate visual depictions and mandates that covered online platforms remove such content.
The legislation aims to protect victims of this form of online abuse while holding perpetrators accountable.
The act also addresses challenges presented by technologies like deepfakes that facilitate the creation and distribution of such material.
President Donald J. Trump's 2025 proclamation designates the third Saturday of May as Armed Forces Day.
The proclamation praises the service and sacrifice of America's military personnel across all branches, highlighting increased recruitment numbers and expressing gratitude for their dedication to national security and humanitarian missions.
It encourages Americans to display the flag and participate in local Armed Forces Day observances, furthering public understanding and appreciation.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
The proclamation celebrates the significant contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the United States, highlighting their resilience and enduring impact.
It encourages all Americans to learn more about this community and participate in commemorative events.
The proclamation draws on historical context to emphasize the integration of this community into the fabric of American society.
Jewish American Heritage Month, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates May 2025 as Jewish American Heritage Month.
The proclamation celebrates the contributions of Jewish Americans to the nation's history while strongly condemning the recent rise in anti-Semitism.
It invokes President George Washington's letter to the Newport Hebrew Congregation as historical context and reaffirms the US's commitment to combating anti-Semitism and standing with Israel.
Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Discussions with the People’s Republic of China
President Trump issued an order modifying reciprocal tariff rates on goods imported from China.
This action, following preceding executive orders imposing tariffs, reflects ongoing discussions with the PRC aimed at addressing trade imbalances and national security concerns.
The order suspends certain tariffs for 90 days, while imposing a 10% ad valorem rate on other goods.
Simultaneously, it makes adjustments to other tariff rates, aiming to improve trade reciprocity.
President Trump's proclamation designates May 15, 2025, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 11-17, 2025, as Police Week.
The proclamation honors law enforcement officers, remembers those who died in the line of duty, and emphasizes a recommitment to support and protect officers.
The President calls upon Congress to further enhance protections for law enforcement agents and to impose harsher penalties for harming them, urging for stricter legislation in these areas.
The proclamation also reflects on a shift away from lawlessness and a return to the rule of law.
Delivering Most-Favored-Nation Prescription Drug Pricing to American Patients
President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order to address the high cost of prescription drugs in the United States.
The order mandates that the government secure the lowest prices paid by other developed nations for pharmaceuticals.
To achieve this, it instructs various federal agencies—including the Secretaries of Commerce and Health and Human Services—to utilize a multi-pronged approach involving negotiations, potential rulemaking, and legal action against anti-competitive practices.
Failure by pharmaceutical companies to comply with the new pricing goals could trigger stricter regulatory measures, including direct-to-consumer sales facilitation at the most-favored-nation price and the possible certification to Congress for importation of lower-cost drugs from other developed countries.
The order also addresses potential legal and budgetary challenges related to its implementation.
Rescission of Useless Water Pressure Standards
President Trump issued a memorandum directing the Secretary of Energy to rescind or amend regulations on water and energy use for various appliances, arguing they make appliances more expensive and less functional.
The memorandum also directs the Secretary to publish a notice clarifying a waiver of federal preemption of state regulations and instructs the preparation of recommendations for Congressional action to rescind relevant sections of law or the Energy Policy Act of 1992 entirely.
The president's directive is justified on the grounds of minimizing unnecessary regulatory burdens on taxpayers.
Keeping Promises to Veterans and Establishing a National Center for Warrior Independence
President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order addressing the inadequate treatment of veterans by the Federal Government.
The order establishes the National Center for Warrior Independence on the West Los Angeles VA campus to house and support homeless veterans.
It directs the reallocation of funds and prioritizes improved accountability within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Furthermore, it mandates efforts to reduce wait times for healthcare appointments and expand services, including exploring options for care at military treatment facilities.
Protecting the Great Lakes from Invasive Carp
President Trump issued a memorandum directing federal agencies to prevent the spread of invasive carp into the Great Lakes.
The memorandum prioritizes the completion of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project in Illinois, demanding expedited land acquisition and permitting processes from the state.
The President also instructed federal agencies to expedite environmental reviews, support infrastructure projects for carp removal and maintenance, and prioritize research and management of invasive species.
Increasing Efficiency At the Office of the Federal Register
President Trump issued an order addressing inefficiencies at the Office of the Federal Register.
The order aims to reduce publication delays for federal regulations, lower publishing costs, and modernize systems.
It directs a review of publication fees and mandates reports on publication times within specific deadlines for the Office of the Federal Register to submit to the Office of Management and Budget.
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates May 9, 2025, as Military Spouse Day, expressing gratitude for the unwavering devotion and sacrifices of military spouses.
The proclamation highlights the significant challenges military spouses face, particularly high unemployment and wage gaps, while also acknowledging past and ongoing efforts to improve employment opportunities within the Federal Government.
It calls upon Americans to honor military spouses with ceremonies and activities, emphasizing their vital role in supporting the nation's armed forces.
Mother’s Day, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's Mother's Day, 2025 proclamation celebrates the crucial role of mothers in American society.
The proclamation extols the virtues of motherhood, emphasizing the love, support, and guidance provided by mothers across various family structures.
It encourages Americans to express appreciation for mothers and reflects on the importance of motherhood to the nation's well-being.
The proclamation concludes with the official designation of May 11, 2025, as Mother's Day.
This executive order aims to curb overcriminalization in federal regulations.
It addresses concerns about the excessive number and complexity of regulations, many carrying potential criminal penalties, by requiring agencies to review and report on existing criminal regulatory offenses, clarifying mens rea requirements in future rulemaking, and establishing guidelines for agency referrals to the Department of Justice for potential criminal prosecution.
Exemptions exist for immigration laws and national security matters.
Establishing Project Homecoming
President Trump's proclamation establishes Project Homecoming, a program offering financial incentives – an "exit bonus" – to illegal aliens who voluntarily leave the U.S. The program aims to alleviate financial burdens on taxpayers, restore national sovereignty, and reduce crime. It directs the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security to create streamlined departure processes, including subsidized flights.
Additionally, it mandates a significant increase in immigration enforcement and removal operations to address those who do not voluntarily depart.
National Foster Care Month, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's May 7, 2025 proclamation designates May 2025 as National Foster Care Month.
The proclamation acknowledges the vital role foster families play in providing care for over 360,000 children annually and emphasizes the importance of supporting these families and children.
It also highlights the Family First Prevention Services Act, aimed at keeping families together through evidence-based interventions.
The President's call to action encourages all Americans to find ways to support children and youth in foster care and to recognize the contributions of foster parents.
Vcitory Day for World War II, 2025
President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation declaring May 8, 2025, as Victory Day for World War II. The proclamation commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in Europe, paying tribute to the sacrifices of American servicemen and women who fought against Nazi Germany and its allies.
It emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace through strength and expresses renewed commitment to safeguarding the nation's freedom and security.
Regulatory Relief to Promote Domestic Production of Critical Medicines
President Trump issued an executive order aiming to bolster domestic pharmaceutical production by streamlining relevant regulations.
The order directs the FDA, EPA, and the Army Corps of Engineers to review and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for new and expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.
This also includes measures to improve the inspection of foreign pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and coordinate environmental permits.
The goal is to increase both the speed and domestic capacity of pharmaceutical product creation, enhance national security, and improve medicine affordability.
Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research
President Trump issued an executive order addressing concerns about dangerous gain-of-function research on biological agents.
The order mandates an immediate end to federal funding of such research conducted by foreign entities in countries lacking adequate oversight.
It also directs the revision of existing policies to strengthen oversight, increase accountability, and improve public transparency.
Further, the order outlines strategies to manage risks associated with non-federally funded research and implement strong enforcement mechanisms, including potential penalties for non-compliance.
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation declares May 4-10, 2025, as National Small Business Week.
The proclamation emphasizes the vital contribution of small businesses to the U.S. economy, job creation, and innovation.
While acknowledging recent challenges faced by small businesses, it highlights the administration's efforts to address issues like unfair trade practices and burdensome regulations through initiatives such as the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative. The proclamation serves as a recognition of small business owners and entrepreneurs.
National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates May 4-10, 2025, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week.
The proclamation highlights the devastating consequences of hurricanes, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and family evacuation plans.
Trump calls upon citizens in hurricane-prone areas to take action to protect themselves and their property, and he highlights the role of local officials in disaster response, referencing his support for their involvement in resilience and preparedness efforts.
National Mental Health Awareness Month, 2025
President Trump's May 2025 proclamation designates May as National Mental Health Awareness Month.
The proclamation acknowledges the impact of mental illness on millions of Americans and emphasizes the administration's commitment to improving mental health, particularly for veterans.
It calls upon all Americans to support those struggling with mental illness and to participate in initiatives promoting awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Loyalty Day and Law Day, U.S.A., 2025
President Trump's 2025 proclamation designates May 1st as both Loyalty Day and Law Day, U.S.A. It celebrates the American commitment to the rule of law, contrasting it with communist regimes.
The proclamation emphasizes restoring fairness and impartiality to federal law enforcement, asserts that American principles transcend evils of communism and dictatorship, and calls for Americans to display the flag and reflect on their nation's history.
National Day of Prayer, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's May 1, 2025, proclamation designates the day as a National Day of Prayer.
It highlights the role of faith and prayer in American history, citing numerous examples from the nation's past.
The proclamation encourages all Americans to participate in prayer and reflection, drawing a connection between faith and the country's ongoing success.
It's rooted in the 1988 Public Law 100-307.
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates May 3-4, 2025, as National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.
The proclamation honors the lives and sacrifices of firefighters who died in the line of duty, acknowledging their bravery and the profound loss felt by their families and communities.
The flag of the United States is to be flown at half-staff on May 4th in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, as per Public Law 107-51.
The proclamation emphasizes the heroism and dedication of firefighters, highlighting specific examples, and expresses gratitude for the profession.
Ending Taxpayer Subsidization Of Biased Media
President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order on May 1, 2025, to terminate all federal funding for National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
The order cites the purported lack of fair, accurate, and unbiased news coverage by these organizations, arguing that taxpayer funding in the modern media landscape is unnecessary and detrimental to journalistic independence.
The order directs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) and other federal agencies to cease direct and indirect funding, setting deadlines for compliance and outlining specific actions to be taken to ensure NPR and PBS no longer receive federal subsidies.
A clause addresses potential legal challenges and maintains the President's authority to allocate federal funds.
Establishment of the Religious Liberty Commission
President Donald J. Trump's May 1, 2025, executive order establishes the Religious Liberty Commission.
The Commission, composed of up to 14 appointed members representing diverse societal sectors, will investigate the state of religious freedom in the United States and provide recommendations to the White House.
The order asserts the importance of protecting religious liberty and counters what it identifies as recent threats to this freedom.The Commission is tasked with producing a comprehensive report by July 4, 2026, covering historical foundations, societal impact, current threats, preservation strategies, and programs promoting peaceful religious pluralism.
The Department of Justice will provide necessary funding and support.