Delegation of Authority With Respect to Concluding Amendments to the July 12, 1999, Agreement Concerning Trade in Certain Steel Products From the Russian Federation

This memorandum delegates presidential authority to the Secretary of Commerce to negotiate and conclude amendments to a 1999 steel trade agreement with Russia, following consultations with the U.S. Trade Representative and other agencies. The Secretary may act without further presidential approval, and may redelegate this authority to the Assistant Secretary for Import Administration.

Federal Register Open PDF 67 FR 48741

Key directives

Secretary of Commerce designated to exercise presidential authority to conclude amendments to July 12, 1999 steel trade agreement with Russia
Secretary must consult with USTR and other appropriate agencies before acting
Secretary may act without presidential approval, ratification, or other action
Assistant Secretary for Import Administration authorized to exercise delegated authority as directed by Secretary
Memorandum to be published in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

Delegation of authority takes effect upon signing

Near term (90d)

Secretary of Commerce may conclude amendments to 1999 steel agreement

Long term

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Risks & tensions

Delegation of trade negotiation authority to Cabinet secretary reduces direct presidential oversight of sensitive trade negotiations
Steel trade with Russia historically contentious; amendments could affect domestic steel industry
Consultation requirement with USTR is vague on whether USTR concurrence is needed or merely consultation