Finance Directives

Extension of Hiring Freeze

Published: Thu 17th Apr 25

This April 17, 2025, presidential memorandum extends a freeze on hiring for federal civilian employees through July 15, 2025.

The freeze applies to all executive branch agencies, barring exceptions for national security, public safety, immigration enforcement and essential services.

Future hiring must comply with a merit-based hiring plan.

Contracting to circumvent the freeze is prohibited, and agencies are instructed to use existing personnel efficiently.

The memorandum also does not affect the deadline for a plan to reduce the federal workforce.

Exceptions may be granted by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).

The freeze will remain in effect for the IRS until the Treasury Secretary determines otherwise and publishes a notice in the Federal Register.

Ensuring Commercial, Cost-Effective Solutions in Federal Contracts

Published: Wed 16th Apr 25

President Trump issued an order to reduce wasteful government spending by requiring federal agencies to favor commercially available products and services whenever possible.

The order directs agencies to review existing contracts and procurement processes, requiring justifications for using non-commercial options.

Agencies must report their progress to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), ensuring accountability and promoting efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

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.

Preventing Illegal Aliens from Obtaining Social Security Act Benefits

Published: Tue 15th Apr 25

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.

Protecting America’s Bank Account Against Fraud, Waste, and Abuse

Published: Tue 25th Mar 25

This executive order addresses the significant financial fraud and improper payments within the Federal Government, aiming to protect taxpayer funds and enhance transparency.

The order directs the Department of the Treasury to implement stricter payment verification procedures, consolidate core financial systems across agencies, and reduce the number of Non-Treasury Disbursing Offices (NTDOs).

Detailed steps are outlined for agencies to comply, including submitting compliance plans and transitioning to Treasury-managed disbursing systems.

Progress reports are required to ensure implementation.

Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account

Published: Tue 25th Mar 25

The Presidential order mandates a significant shift towards electronic payments for all federal disbursements and receipts by September 30, 2025.

This action aims to reduce costs, improve efficiency, enhance security, and combat fraud associated with paper-based systems, such as checks and money orders.

While recognizing the need for accommodations for those lacking electronic access, the order establishes a clear policy for modernizing government finances and sets specific timelines and responsibilities for its implementation.

Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos

Published: Fri 21st Mar 25

This executive order directs federal agencies to eliminate barriers to data access and promote information sharing to combat waste, fraud, and abuse.

It mandates that agency heads take steps to ensure designated officials have access to unclassified agency records and data, rescind guidance hindering information sharing, and provide unfettered access to data from federally funded state programs.

The order also calls for a review of classified information policies and includes provisions for implementing the order consistent with existing laws and budget limitations.

Eliminating Waste and Saving Taxpayer Dollars by Consolidating Procurement

Published: Thu 20th Mar 25

This executive order directs the consolidation of domestic federal procurement of common goods and services under the General Services Administration (GSA).

The order cites the GSA's original mandate for efficient procurement and the significant annual spending on federal contracts as justification.

The order sets deadlines for agencies to submit proposals to the GSA, for the GSA to create a comprehensive plan, and for the OMB to designate the GSA Administrator as the executive agent for government-wide IT acquisition contracts.

The aim is to eliminate waste and duplication, improving efficiency and saving taxpayer dollars.

Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production

Published: Thu 20th Mar 25

President Trump issued an executive order to significantly increase American mineral production.

The order aims to bolster national and economic security by reducing dependence on foreign mineral sources.

It directs various federal agencies to expedite permitting for mineral production projects, prioritize mineral extraction on federal lands, and leverage public and private funding to support domestic mineral companies.

The order addresses regulatory streamlining, waste disposal, and encouraging capital investment, clarifying the treatment of mine waste under the Mining Act of 1872.

Ensuring the Enforcement of Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(c)

Published: Tue 11th Mar 25

President Trump's memorandum addresses what he describes as activist organizations obtaining overly broad injunctions against the Federal Government, often through meritless lawsuits and forum shopping.

The memorandum directs executive agencies to utilize Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(c) to require plaintiffs to post security for the anticipated costs and damages if an injunction is wrongly issued.

This aims to deter frivolous litigation, protect taxpayer funds, and free up the Department of Justice's resources.

Establishment of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and United States Digital Asset Stockpile

Published: Fri 7th Mar 25

This presidential order establishes a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a United States Digital Asset Stockpile. The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve will manage Bitcoin acquired through forfeited assets, while the Digital Asset Stockpile will handle other digital assets.

The Treasury Department is tasked with creating offices to manage these reserves.

Strategies for acquiring additional Bitcoin will be developed, but acquiring additional stockpile assets beyond seized assets requires further action.

Agencies must provide an accounting of their digital assets, and the order emphasizes responsible stewardship, legal compliance, and protection for victims of crime.

Addressing Risks from Perkins Coie LLP

Published: Thu 6th Mar 25

President Trump issued an executive order addressing alleged misconduct by the law firm Perkins Coie LLP. The order directs a review of security clearances held by Perkins Coie employees, mandates the cessation of government contracts with the firm and entities doing business with it, and initiates investigations into allegations of racial discrimination.

The order aims to protect national security, ensure responsible use of taxpayer funds, and uphold the principles of equal opportunity and fair elections.

Implementing the President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Cost Efficiency Initiative

Published: Wed 26th Feb 25

This executive order mandates a transformation of federal spending, aiming for increased transparency and accountability.

It directs all agencies to implement centralized technological systems for tracking payments and justifications, conduct comprehensive reviews of existing contracts and grants to reduce spending, and freeze agency credit cards (with exceptions).

The order prioritizes the review of funds disbursed to educational institutions and foreign entities and establishes reporting requirements to the newly created Department of Government Efficiency.

Making America Healthy Again by Empowering Patients with Clear, Accurate, and Actionable Healthcare Pricing Information

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

This Presidential Action addresses the lack of healthcare price transparency, aiming to empower patients with clear and accurate pricing information.

It directs the Secretaries of Treasury, Labor, and Health and Human Services to strengthen existing regulations and improve enforcement, ensuring hospitals and health plans disclose actual prices rather than estimates.

It leverages prior efforts to achieve greater transparency in healthcare costs, ultimately supporting a more competitive, efficient, and affordable healthcare system.

Suspension of Security Clearances and Evaluation of Government Contracts

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

The President directed the Attorney General and other executive department heads to immediately suspend active security clearances held by Peter Koski and Covington & Burling LLP employees who assisted Special Counsel Jack Smith, pending a review of their involvement in the alleged weaponization of the judicial process.

The order also mandates a review of all government contracts with Covington & Burling LLP, with agencies instructed to align funding decisions with the President's priorities and the interests of the U.S. citizens.

The actions are justified by Executive Order 14147, and the memorandum explicitly states it does not create any legally enforceable rights.

President Trump Takes Decisive Action to Deliver Relief to Kentucky

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

President Donald J. Trump declared a major disaster in Kentucky following severe storms and flooding.

This action makes federal funding available to individuals, households, and government entities for recovery efforts.

The declaration follows an earlier emergency declaration, highlighting a rapid response to the crisis and support from state and federal officials.

America First Investment Policy

Published: Fri 21st Feb 25

The Presidential memorandum establishes an "America First" investment policy aimed at bolstering US national and economic security.

It prioritizes investments from allies while significantly restricting those from adversaries, particularly China, focusing on sectors like technology, infrastructure, and critical resources.

The policy utilizes existing mechanisms like CFIUS and explores new legal tools, including potential sanctions, to counter adversary acquisition of sensitive US assets.

Expedited review processes for allied investments and stricter oversight of adversary investments are key components.

The memorandum also initiates reviews of existing tax treaties and financial regulations to further protect US interests and direct investment toward domestic growth.

Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders

Published: Wed 19th Feb 25

This executive order aims to restrict access to taxpayer-funded benefits for undocumented immigrants.

It directs federal agencies to review their programs, enhance eligibility verification, and prevent the use of federal funds to support illegal immigration or so-called 'sanctuary' policies.

The order cites the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 as legal justification and seeks to prevent the misuse of taxpayer resources while protecting benefits for eligible citizens.

Ensuring Accountability for All Agencies

Published: Wed 19th Feb 25

This Presidential order establishes a policy of strengthened Presidential supervision and control over the entire executive branch to enhance accountability to the American people.

It mandates OIRA review of all significant regulatory actions before publication, defines terms related to independent regulatory agencies, sets performance standards, and requires consultation between agencies and the Executive Office of the President.

The order also asserts that the President and Attorney General provide authoritative interpretations of law for the executive branch.

Finally, the order includes standard clauses regarding invalid provisions and the non-creation of legally enforceable rights.

Expanding Access to In Vitro Fertilization

Published: Wed 19th Feb 25

This presidential order addresses the high cost and limited access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment.

It declares it the administration's policy to improve access to IVF and reduce its cost, directing the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy to submit policy recommendations within 90 days to achieve this goal.

The order also includes standard clauses protecting existing agency authority and stating that it does not create any new legal rights.

President Donald J. Trump Approves Kentucky Emergency Declaration

Published: Sun 16th Feb 25

President Donald J. Trump declared a federal emergency in Kentucky following severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and landslides that began on February 14, 2025.

The declaration authorizes FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts across all 120 counties, providing emergency protective measures with 75% federal funding.

A FEMA coordinator has been appointed to oversee recovery operations.

Keeping Education Accessible and Ending Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates in Schools

Published: Sat 15th Feb 25

This Presidential order aims to prevent the use of federal funds for schools that mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for students.

It asserts that the low risk of severe illness for children and young adults makes such mandates an infringement on personal freedom.

The order directs the Secretary of Education to create guidelines regarding parental rights, religious freedom, and equal protection and to develop a plan to end coercive mandates, consistent with applicable law.

This plan includes identifying federal grants and contracts to non-compliant schools and outlining how to prevent future funding to such institutions.

Nominations Sent to the Senate

Published: Wed 12th Feb 25

The President submitted numerous nominations for key positions across various federal departments and agencies to the Senate for confirmation.

These nominations span a wide range of portfolios, including Health and Human Services, Labor, Veterans Affairs, Education, Commerce, State, Treasury, Energy, Environmental Protection, and others.

The President also announced a withdrawal of a previously submitted nomination.

Implementing The President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative

Published: Tue 11th Feb 25

This Presidential Order aims to restructure the federal workforce to enhance efficiency and reduce government size. It mandates a hiring ratio of 1:4 (one new hire for every four departures), requires agencies to develop data-driven hiring plans, authorizes large-scale reductions in force, initiates rulemaking to revise suitability criteria for federal employment, and directs agencies to submit reorganization plans.

Exemptions are allowed for national security and public safety roles, and the order clarifies that it does not create any new legal rights.

Withdrawing the United States from and Ending Funding to Certain United Nations Organizations and Reviewing United States Support to All International Organizations

Published: Wed 5th Feb 25

This presidential order directs the United States to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), cease funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), and conduct a comprehensive review of US involvement in all international organizations.

The order cites concerns about these organizations acting against US interests, promoting anti-Semitism, and harboring terrorist elements.

The Secretary of State will lead reviews of UNESCO membership and funding for international organizations, with recommendations for further withdrawals to be submitted to the President within 180 days.

National Security Presidential Memorandum/NSPM-2

Published: Wed 5th Feb 25

This presidential memorandum directs multiple US agencies to implement a comprehensive strategy of maximum pressure against Iran.

The strategy aims to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, neutralize its regional aggression, disrupt its support for terrorist groups, and counter its development of weapons capabilities.

It involves imposing and enhancing sanctions, isolating Iran diplomatically, and pursuing legal action against Iranian entities and individuals involved in terrorism and sanctions evasion.

A Plan for Establishing a United States Sovereign Wealth Fund

Published: Tue 4th Feb 25

This presidential order establishes a policy to maximize the stewardship of national wealth for American citizens by creating a sovereign wealth fund.

The Secretaries of the Treasury and Commerce, in coordination with the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, must develop a plan for the fund's establishment within 90 days.

This plan should include funding, investment strategies, structure, governance, and legal considerations.

The order clarifies that it does not create any new legal rights or benefits and is subject to available appropriations.

Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families

Published: Wed 29th Jan 25

This presidential order aims to enhance K-12 education by empowering parents to choose the best schools for their children.

Addressing the shortcomings of the current public education system, the order directs federal agencies to explore using existing funds to support state-based educational choice initiatives, prioritize education freedom in grant programs, and provide guidance on using block grants to expand educational choices for low-income families and military families.

It also mandates a review of funding mechanisms for families of children eligible for Bureau of Indian Education schools.

Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation

Published: Tue 28th Jan 25

This executive order bans federal funding and support for gender-affirming care for minors, defining such care as potentially harmful 'chemical and surgical mutilation.' It directs federal agencies to rescind policies relying on the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidance, conduct literature reviews on best practices for children with gender dysphoria, and take steps to prevent these procedures through various means including Medicare/Medicaid, TRICARE, and the Federal Employee Health Benefits program.

The order also instructs the Department of Justice to investigate potential fraud and abuse related to these procedures and to support legislation providing legal recourse for affected children and families.

Next-Generation Missile Defense Shield

Published: Tue 28th Jan 25

This Presidential order directs the creation and implementation of a next-generation missile defense shield for the United States.

It mandates the development of a comprehensive plan within 60 days, including space-based interceptors and non-kinetic capabilities, to counter advanced missile threats.

The order also emphasizes international collaboration on missile defense and ensures that this initiative is consistent with existing laws and budget considerations.

Presidential Action on the Mexico City Policy

Published: Sat 25th Jan 25

This memorandum, dated January 24, 2025, revokes a 2021 directive and reinstates the Mexico City Policy from January 23, 2017.

It directs U.S. health aid efforts globally to ensure taxpayer dollars do not support coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization programs.

Presidential Action on the Hyde Amendment: Revocation of Prior Orders

Published: Sat 25th Jan 25

The President issued an order to enforce the Hyde Amendment, which historically prevents federal funding of elective abortions, revoking several recent executive orders that counteracted this policy.

The directive mandates that no federal taxpayer dollars are used to fund or promote elective abortions, aligning with longstanding agreement.

It outlines that this order will be implemented in accordance with the law and available appropriations.

Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology

Published: Thu 23rd Jan 25

The Presidential Executive Order outlines strategies to advance US leadership in the digital asset industry, blockchain technology, and financial technologies.

It emphasizes the need for responsible growth and usage of digital assets while protecting economic freedom and sovereignty.

The document outlines policies supporting open blockchain access, banking service fairness, and regulatory clarity, alongside banning Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) in the US. It establishes a working group, revokes previous directives on digital assets, and sets tasks and timelines for involved agencies to recommend regulatory adaptations.

Nominations Transmitted to the Senate

Published: Wed 22nd Jan 25

On January 22, 2025, the President transmitted a series of nominations to the Senate for key positions across multiple federal agencies.

These nominations include individuals for Under Secretary roles in Agriculture, Deputy Secretary positions in Transportation, Energy, and Veterans Affairs, as well as other senior leadership roles within agencies such as the Small Business Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, Treasury, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Interior, and Education.

The purpose is to fill vacancies in various government agencies.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Global Tax Deal (Global Tax Deal)

Published: Tue 21st Jan 25

This presidential memorandum rescinds the U.S.'s commitment to the OECD Global Tax Deal, asserting that it infringes on U.S. sovereignty and negatively impacts American businesses.

It directs the Treasury Secretary and other officials to inform the OECD of this decision and to investigate foreign tax policies that disproportionately affect U.S. companies, developing protective measures in response.

The memorandum emphasizes the importance of upholding U.S. economic interests and competitiveness.

REEVALUATING AND REALIGNING UNITED STATES FOREIGN AID

Published: Tue 21st Jan 25

This executive order pauses all new US foreign aid disbursements for 90 days to review current programs for efficiency and alignment with US foreign policy.

The order cites concerns that the current system is misaligned with American interests and values.

Following the review period, programs will be either continued, modified, or terminated based on the Secretary of State's recommendations, along with the Office of Management and Budget.

A waiver provision exists for specific programs.

Regulatory Freeze Pending Review

Published: Mon 20th Jan 25

This presidential memorandum institutes a temporary freeze on new federal regulations and initiates a review process for existing and pending rules.

All executive departments and agencies must halt rule-making until appointed heads review and approve them.

Rules already submitted but not published are withdrawn for review, published rules are subject to a 60-day postponement, and the Office of Management and Budget oversees the entire process.

Any actions contradicting this memorandum may be addressed via modification or extension.

President Trump Designates Chairmen and Acting Chairmen

Published: Mon 20th Jan 25

On January 20, 2025, President Trump announced the designation of numerous chairmen and acting chairmen for various federal commissions and boards.

The appointments cover a wide range of agencies, including those responsible for communications, energy, labor, finance, and transportation, signaling a significant reshuffling of leadership across the federal government.

President Trump Announces Acting Cabinet and Cabinet-Level Positions

Published: Mon 20th Jan 25

President Trump issued a directive appointing acting cabinet secretaries and other high-level officials across numerous federal agencies.

The appointees are temporarily filling their positions until permanent replacements are selected, with the directive citing 5 U.S.C. 3345 et seq. as legal justification.

The directive lists numerous individuals and their assigned acting roles, ensuring continuity in government operations.

President Trump Announces Sub-Cabinet APPOINTMENTS

Published: Mon 20th Jan 25

President Trump nominated numerous individuals to fill sub-cabinet level positions across various federal agencies.

The nominations encompass leadership roles in departments including Defense, Health and Human Services, Justice, Homeland Security, Treasury, Agriculture, Energy, and others.

The announcement details the nominees' names, states of residence, and the specific positions for which they are being nominated, which then require Senate confirmation.