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MemoMemorandumObama · D Quiet signal

Presidential Memorandum

Delegation of Authority Under Sections 552(c)(2) and 614 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Amended

This memorandum delegates presidential authority to the Secretary of State to direct a drawdown of up to $15 million in nonlethal commodities and services from U.S. government agencies to assist the Syrian Opposition Coalition and Supreme Military Council, and to waive legal restrictions under the Foreign Assistance Act if deemed important to U.S. security interests.

Federal Register Open PDF 78 FR 62413

Impact dates

  1. Federal Register publication

Key directives

  • Delegate authority under FAA section 552(c)(2) to direct drawdown of up to $15 million in nonlethal commodities/services to SOC and SMC
  • Delegate authority under FAA section 614 to determine waiver of legal restrictions for such assistance
  • Authorize and direct publication in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect
  • Secretary of State authorized to direct drawdown and make determinations

Near term (90d)

  • Potential execution of $15 million drawdown for nonlethal assistance
  • Federal Register publication required

Long term

  • Ongoing U.S. policy engagement in Syrian conflict
  • Precedent for delegated emergency foreign assistance authority

Risks & tensions

  • Limited oversight: Presidential waiver authority delegated to Cabinet secretary reduces direct executive control
  • Vague 'security interests' standard provides broad discretion with minimal procedural constraints
  • Nonlethal assistance to armed opposition groups carries risks of diversion or escalation
  • No explicit reporting or congressional notification requirements in memorandum text
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Sections 552(c)(2) and 614 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Amended · Executive Orders