Secretary of Commerce
Executive orders directing the Secretary of Commerce · 96 in Obama · 500 all terms.
Related departments
Orders
96 shown · Obama
Continuing To Expand Opportunity for All Young People
This memorandum amends a 2014 Obama-era initiative by renaming the 'My Brother's Keeper' program to the 'Task Force on Improving the Lives of Boys and Young Men of Color and Underserved Youth,' expanding its membership to include 23 specified agency heads and officials, adding reporting requirements including annual status reports and biennial reviews, and broadening the scope to explicitly include 'underserved youth' alongside boys and young men of color.
Recognizing Positive Actions by the Government of Sudan and Providing for the Revocation of Certain Sudan-Related Sanctions
This executive order conditionally revokes certain U.S. sanctions against Sudan effective July 12, 2017, contingent on Sudan sustaining positive actions including reduced military activity, improved humanitarian access, and counterterrorism cooperation. It also assigns reporting and certification functions to the Secretaries of State and Treasury, and requires annual reviews of Sudan's continued compliance.
Safeguarding the Nation From the Impacts of Invasive Species
This executive order updates and strengthens federal coordination on invasive species by amending Executive Order 13112. It maintains the National Invasive Species Council with expanded membership, adds new priorities including climate change and public health impacts, and mandates a new management plan with specific reporting requirements.
Establishing a Community Solutions Council
This executive order establishes a new Community Solutions Council to coordinate federal community investment programs across agencies, replacing two prior Obama-era councils. The Council is led by two Co-Chairs (one from the White House/OMB, one rotating among eight major agencies every four years) and includes 34+ members spanning nearly the entire Cabinet and key White House offices. It builds on existing place-based initiatives like Promise Zones and StrikeForce, with a mandate to foster interagency collaboration, scale evidence-based practices, and center locally led visions in federal policymaking.
Advancing the Goals of the Power Africa Initiative to Expand Access to Electricity in Sub- Saharan Africa Through the Establishment of the President's Power Africa Working Group
This executive order establishes a formal interagency structure to advance the Power Africa initiative, which aims to double electricity access in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030 through 30,000 MW of new capacity and 60 million new connections. It creates a Coordinator position at USAID and a Power Africa Working Group co-chaired by USAID and the NSC to coordinate across 13 federal agencies. The order also directs agencies to facilitate participation of African private sector companies in energy projects.
Coordinating Efforts To Prepare the Nation for Space Weather Events
This executive order establishes a coordinated federal framework to prepare for and mitigate space weather events such as solar flares and geomagnetic disturbances that threaten critical infrastructure including GPS, satellites, aviation, and the electrical power grid. It assigns specific roles to multiple agencies, creates a new NSTC subcommittee for coordination, and mandates several plans and assessments within 60-180 days to enhance forecasting, infrastructure protection, and emergency response capabilities.
Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument
President Obama designated approximately 4,913 square miles of Atlantic Ocean as the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument under the Antiquities Act, permanently protecting three submarine canyons and four seamounts from commercial extraction, oil and gas development, and most fishing, with limited exceptions for red crab and lobster fishing for 7 years. The proclamation establishes a dual-management structure between Commerce (NOAA) and Interior (FWS) and mandates a joint management plan within 3 years.
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument Expansion
President Obama expanded the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument by approximately 442,781 square miles, making it the world's largest marine protected area at the time. The proclamation prohibits commercial fishing, oil and gas exploration, and mineral extraction in the expanded area while allowing regulated scientific research, Native Hawaiian cultural practices, and non-commercial fishing.
Delegation of Certain Authorities and Assignment of Certain Functions Under the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015
This executive order delegates specific presidential authorities under the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 to cabinet secretaries and the U.S. Trade Representative, including export promotion coordination, trade capacity building, and currency exchange rate enforcement procedures. It establishes interagency consultation requirements for enhanced bilateral engagement on currency manipulation and creates a formal recommendation process for potential remedial actions.
Global Entrepreneurship
This executive order establishes the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) Program under the Commerce Department to leverage successful entrepreneurs' networks for mentoring and policy advocacy worldwide. It also creates a Global Connect Initiative and interagency Steering Group to expand internet access in developing countries, with reporting requirements through 2020.
Delegation of Certain Functions and Authorities Under the North Korea Sanctions and Policy Enhancement Act of 2016
This memorandum delegates specific authorities granted to the President under the North Korea Sanctions and Policy Enhancement Act of 2016 to the Secretaries of State, Treasury, and Commerce, and the Director of National Intelligence. It assigns discrete responsibilities for sanctions implementation, reporting, and strategy development across these officials, with required consultation between them.
Promoting Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
This memorandum establishes a Federal Interagency Reentry Council co-chaired by the Attorney General and the White House Domestic Policy Council Director to coordinate federal efforts reducing recidivism and removing barriers to employment, housing, and reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. It directs agencies to review hiring and occupational licensing procedures to avoid automatic disqualification based on criminal records, and requires a federal strategic plan within 100 days.
Building National Capabilities for Long-Term Drought Resilience
This memorandum institutionalizes the National Drought Resilience Partnership (NDRP) as an interagency task force to coordinate federal drought resilience efforts. It directs agencies to take specific actions by December 31, 2016, across six goal areas including data integration, drought planning, critical infrastructure risk communication, federal coordination, market-based water approaches, and water efficiency technology. The NDRP is housed at USDA with co-chairs from Agriculture and rotating Commerce leadership, and must produce a charter within 90 days and an initial progress report within 150 days.
Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity
This executive order establishes a 12-member advisory Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity within the Department of Commerce to develop detailed recommendations for strengthening public and private sector cybersecurity over the next decade. The Commission must submit a final report by December 1, 2016, and will terminate within 15 days thereafter unless extended by the President.
White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force
This memorandum establishes the White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force, chaired by the Vice President, to coordinate federal efforts to accelerate cancer research, treatment, and prevention. The Task Force includes heads of 14 executive departments and agencies and is directed to produce findings and recommendations on accelerating research, improving patient care, reducing regulatory barriers, and developing public-private partnerships, with a report due to the President by December 31, 2016.
Strengthening the Senior Executive Service
This executive order reforms the Senior Executive Service (SES) by creating a PMC Subcommittee to oversee changes including: capping performance award spending at 7.5%, streamlining hiring processes, requiring SES pay to exceed subordinate GS employees, establishing a 15% rotation goal for SES members, and phasing in talent management and succession planning across all agencies by FY 2018.
Delegation of Certain Functions and Authorities Under Section 213(b)(1) of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012
This memorandum delegates presidential authority under Section 213(b)(1) of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 from the Secretary of the Treasury to the Secretary of State, requiring consultation with multiple other cabinet members and agency heads. It rescinds the 2012 delegation to Treasury while leaving other provisions of that earlier memorandum intact.
Preparing for Implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action of July 14, 2015 (JCPOA)
This memorandum directs the Secretaries of State, Treasury, Commerce, and Energy to prepare for implementing U.S. commitments under the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), including sanctions waivers and eventual termination of executive orders, contingent on IAEA verification of Iran's nuclear steps. The actions are conditioned on future confirmation by the Secretary of State, not immediate effect.
Continuance or Reestablishment of Certain Federal Advisory Committees
This executive order continues or reestablishes 40 federal advisory committees until September 30, 2017, transferring FACA compliance responsibilities to designated agency heads and updating administrative oversight for the National Industrial Security Program Policy Advisory Committee.
Creating a National Strategic Computing Initiative
This executive order establishes the National Strategic Computing Initiative (NSCI), a coordinated federal strategy to advance U.S. leadership in high-performance computing (HPC) through 2030. It designates lead agencies (DOE, DOD, NSF), foundational R&D agencies (IARPA, NIST), and deployment agencies to pursue exascale computing, post-semiconductor technologies, and public-private collaboration in HPC research and deployment.
Delegation of Certain Authorities and Assignment of Certain Functions Under the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015
This executive order delegates presidential authorities and assigns functions under the 2015 Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) law to specific officials, primarily the U.S. Trade Representative, while reserving certain authorities to the President. It establishes interagency processes for environmental reviews, employment impact assessments, labor rights reports, and implementation planning for trade agreements.
Establishment of the Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center
This memorandum directs the Director of National Intelligence to establish the Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center (CTIIC), a new intelligence organization to coordinate analysis and sharing of foreign cyber threat intelligence across federal agencies. The CTIIC is tasked with integrating all-source analysis, supporting existing cyber centers, developing intelligence sharing capabilities, and coordinating interagency responses to foreign cyber threats, with a goal of reaching full operating capability by the end of fiscal year 2016.
Promoting Economic Competitiveness While Safeguarding Privacy, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties in Domestic Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems
This 2015 memorandum establishes privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections for federal use of drones (UAS) in U.S. airspace, requires agencies to review policies every 3 years, limits retention of personally identifiable information to 180 days, mandates transparency reports, and directs Commerce to launch a multi-stakeholder process for commercial drone privacy best practices.
Enhancing Coordination of National Efforts in the Arctic
This executive order establishes an Arctic Executive Steering Committee to coordinate federal Arctic policy across agencies during the U.S. chairmanship of the Arctic Council. It mandates improved interagency coordination, tribal consultation with Alaska Native governments, and a report identifying overlaps and gaps in Arctic policy implementation.
Expanding Federal Support for Predevelopment Activities for Nonfederal Domestic Infrastructure Assets
This memorandum directs federal agencies to expand support for predevelopment activities—such as planning, feasibility studies, and environmental review—for nonfederal domestic infrastructure projects. It requires specific departments to clarify funding eligibility, develop guidance, and submit implementation plans within 60 days to encourage public-private partnerships and innovative infrastructure investment.
Creating Welcoming Communities and Fully Integrating Immigrants and Refugees
This memorandum establishes the White House Task Force on New Americans, co-chaired by the Director of the Domestic Policy Council and the Secretary of Homeland Security, to develop a coordinated federal strategy for integrating immigrants and refugees into American communities. The Task Force must submit an Integration Plan within 120 days and a status report within one year, with responsibilities including reviewing agency policies, disseminating best practices, and measuring equitable access to services.
Modernizing and Streamlining the U.S. Immigrant Visa System for the 21st Century
This November 2014 presidential memorandum directs the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security to develop, within 120 days, recommendations for modernizing and streamlining the U.S. legal immigration and visa system. The recommendations must address reducing government costs, improving applicant services, reducing employer burdens, ensuring full use of congressionally authorized visa numbers, and modernizing IT infrastructure, with input from diverse stakeholders.
Improving the Security of Consumer Financial Transactions
This executive order mandates federal agencies adopt chip-and-PIN technology for government payment cards and terminals by early 2015, streamlines identity theft victim remediation through a centralized FTC website, and requires multi-factor authentication for federal digital services within 18 months.
Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument Expansion
President Obama expanded the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument by approximately 308,316 square nautical miles around Jarvis Island, Wake Island, and Johnston Atoll, extending protection to the seaward limit of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. The proclamation prohibits commercial fishing in the expanded area while allowing noncommercial fishing, scientific research, and military activities, and directs the Secretaries of Interior and Commerce to prepare management plans within two years.
Deepening U.S. Government Efforts To Collaborate With and Strengthen Civil Society
This 2014 presidential memorandum directs federal agencies engaged in foreign policy to strengthen collaboration with civil society organizations worldwide, oppose undue restrictions on civic freedoms, and integrate civil society consultation into U.S. diplomatic engagement. It requires annual reporting to the President on implementation progress.
Establishing the President's Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa
This executive order creates a 15-member private sector advisory council to counsel the President on expanding U.S.-Africa trade and investment. The council focuses on promoting the Doing Business in Africa Campaign and advising on strategies for American companies to engage with African markets across multiple sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, and services.
Creating and Expanding Ladders of Opportunity for Boys and Young Men of Color
President Obama established the My Brother's Keeper Task Force, an interagency initiative chaired by the Assistant to the President and Cabinet Secretary with the Deputy Secretary of Education as Executive Director, to improve life outcomes for boys and young men of color through better coordination of federal programs, data sharing, and public-private partnerships. The Task Force is directed to create assessment tools, evaluate federal policy impacts, and report back with recommendations within 90 days and a status report within one year.
Job-Driven Training for Workers
This memorandum directs the Secretaries of Labor, Commerce, and Education to develop within 180 days an action plan to reform federal workforce and training programs to be more "job-driven," emphasizing employer engagement, skills matching, accountability for employment outcomes, and better alignment across education and training systems. The Vice President is tasked with leading a government-wide review of relevant federal programs.
Reserving Certain Submerged Lands in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
President Obama issued a proclamation on January 15, 2014, excepting certain submerged lands around five islands in the Northern Mariana Islands from transfer to the Commonwealth government under Public Law 93-435. The proclamation permanently protects marine national monument lands around three islands and preserves military training areas near two leased islands, with provisions for future conveyance if management agreements are reached.
Establishing a Quadrennial Energy Review
This memorandum establishes a Quadrennial Energy Review Task Force co-chaired by the OSTP and Domestic Policy Council directors to produce a comprehensive energy policy review every four years, with the first report due January 31, 2015 focusing on U.S. energy infrastructure challenges. The Task Force includes representatives from 23 agencies and is directed to engage stakeholders and recommend executive and legislative actions.
Preparing the United States for the Impacts of Climate Change
This executive order directs federal agencies to integrate climate change preparedness and resilience into their operations, programs, and investments. It establishes a new interagency Council on Climate Preparedness and Resilience, creates a State, Local, and Tribal Leaders Task Force, mandates updated Agency Adaptation Plans, and requires modernization of federal programs to remove barriers to climate-resilient investment.
Delegation of Functions Under Sections 1261(b) and 1262(a) of Public Law 112-239
This memorandum delegates specific presidential functions under the 2013 NDAA to two Cabinet secretaries: the Secretary of State receives authority under Section 1261(b) regarding satellite export controls, and the Secretary of Commerce receives authority under Section 1262(a) regarding certain defense trade items. It is a routine administrative delegation with minimal policy substance.
Continuance Of Certain Federal Advisory Committees
This executive order extends 26 federal advisory committees until September 30, 2015, and makes technical amendments to several prior executive orders governing the National Infrastructure Advisory Council, President's Management Advisory Board, President's Global Development Council, and President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. It also delegates presidential functions under the Federal Advisory Committee Act to designated agency heads.
Expanding National Service Through Partnerships to Advance Government Priorities
This memorandum establishes an interagency Task Force on Expanding National Service, co-chaired by the CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and the Director of the Domestic Policy Council. It directs federal agencies to develop partnerships with CNCS to expand national service and volunteer opportunities aligned with the six focus areas of the Serve America Act, and requires specific reports and guidance within set timeframes.
Combating Wildlife Trafficking
This executive order establishes a Presidential Task Force on Wildlife Trafficking co-chaired by the State Department, Interior Department, and Attorney General to develop a national strategy against wildlife trafficking. It also creates an Advisory Council of non-governmental experts to advise the Task Force, with specific deadlines for initial meetings, strategy production, and council establishment.
Establishing the White House Council on Native American Affairs
This executive order creates the White House Council on Native American Affairs, chaired by the Secretary of the Interior, to coordinate federal policy across 30+ agencies to support tribal self-governance and improve quality of life for Native Americans. It establishes a formal structure for interagency coordination on economic development, healthcare, education, justice, and environmental protection while mandating three annual meetings.
Expanding America's Leadership in Wireless Innovation
This 2013 memorandum directs federal agencies to accelerate shared access to spectrum bands below 6 GHz, creating a Spectrum Policy Team to oversee implementation. It mandates multiple reports and plans on spectrum sharing technologies, federal test facility access, agency spectrum usage assessments, and procurement efficiency guidelines, while encouraging the FCC to expedite commercial broadband deployment and develop receiver performance standards.
Transforming Our Nation's Electric Grid Through Improved Siting, Permitting, and Review
This 2013 memorandum directs federal agencies to modernize the electric transmission grid by improving siting, permitting, and review processes for energy corridors on federal lands. It establishes specific deadlines for studies, assessments, and implementation plans to expedite renewable energy transmission while minimizing environmental and cultural impacts.
Delegation of Certain Functions and Authorities Under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012
This memorandum delegates specific functions and authorities under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012 (IFCA) and amended provisions of the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 (CISADA) from the President to various cabinet secretaries and agency heads, primarily the Secretaries of Treasury and State, with detailed consultation requirements for imposing and implementing sanctions against Iran.
Authorizing the Implementation of Certain Sanctions Set Forth in the Iran Freedom and Counter- Proliferation Act of 2012 and Additional Sanctions With Respect To Iran
This executive order authorizes sanctions against foreign financial institutions and persons that conduct significant transactions related to Iranian currency, support designated Iranian persons, or supply goods and services to Iran's automotive sector. It implements provisions of the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012 and expands existing sanctions authorities, with the order taking effect on July 1, 2013.
Modernizing Federal Infrastructure Review and Permitting Regulations, Policies, and Procedures
This memorandum directs federal agencies to modernize infrastructure permitting and review regulations to cut aggregate timelines for major projects in half while improving environmental and community outcomes. It mandates a 60-day prioritization effort and 120-day comprehensive modernization plan by an interagency steering committee, building on Executive Order 13604 reforms.
Administration of Reformed Export Controls
This executive order delegates specific functions under the Arms Export Control Act to the Secretaries of State and Defense, revokes the previous 1977 executive order on export controls, and amends Executive Order 13222 to establish congressional notification procedures for certain firearms and Major Defense Equipment exports under Commerce jurisdiction, while also authorizing the Secretary of State to license Commerce-controlled exports when agreed with the Secretary of Commerce.
Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity
This executive order establishes a voluntary, public-private partnership framework to strengthen cybersecurity protections for U.S. critical infrastructure. It directs federal agencies to improve cyber threat information sharing with private sector entities, mandates development of a Cybersecurity Framework by NIST, creates a voluntary adoption program, and requires identification of the most at-risk critical infrastructure systems.
Establishing the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force
This executive order establishes a cabinet-level task force chaired by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to coordinate long-term rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Sandy. The task force is required to produce a comprehensive rebuilding strategy within 180 days of its first meeting, after which it will terminate 60 days later.
Establishment of an Interagency Task Force on Commercial Advocacy
This executive order creates an Interagency Task Force on Commercial Advocacy, chaired by the Secretary of Commerce, to coordinate federal support for U.S. businesses competing for international contracts against foreign firms. The Task Force brings together 15 agencies to prioritize advocacy cases, coordinate senior-level engagement with foreign officials, raise business awareness of available services, and report progress every 180 days.
Establishing the White House Homeland Security Partnership Council
This executive order creates the White House Homeland Security Partnership Council and its Steering Committee to institutionalize collaboration between federal field offices and local partners—including state/local/tribal governments, private sector, and nonprofits—to address homeland security challenges ranging from disaster response to terrorism prevention. The Council advises on priorities, promotes best practices, and convenes annually, while the Steering Committee sets its scope, selects members, and reports to the President yearly.
Authorizing the Implementation of Certain Sanctions Set Forth in the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 and Additional Sanctions With Respect to Iran
This executive order authorizes the Treasury and State Departments to implement sanctions against persons and entities supporting Iran's government, particularly those involved in human rights abuses, censorship, and petroleum trade. It blocks U.S.-controlled foreign entities from transactions with Iran that would be prohibited if done domestically, with a divestment deadline, and amends prior sanctions orders.
Accelerating Investment in Industrial Energy Efficiency
This executive order directs federal agencies to coordinate efforts to accelerate industrial energy efficiency investments, particularly combined heat and power (CHP) systems, with a national goal of deploying 40 gigawatts of new industrial CHP by 2020. It tasks DOE, Commerce, Agriculture, and EPA with stakeholder engagement, technical assistance to states and manufacturers, and using existing authorities to support efficiency investments.
Authorizing Additional Sanctions With Respect to Iran
This executive order authorizes additional U.S. sanctions targeting foreign financial institutions and persons that conduct significant transactions with Iran's petroleum, petrochemical, and energy sectors. It expands existing authorities to block property, restrict correspondent banking access, and impose trade and financial penalties on entities supporting Iran's oil industry or evading international sanctions.
Assignment of National Security and Emergency Preparedness Communications Functions
This executive order establishes a comprehensive framework for national security and emergency preparedness (NS/EP) communications, creating an interagency Executive Committee co-chaired by Defense and Homeland Security to coordinate survivable, resilient federal communications under all circumstances. It assigns specific responsibilities across multiple departments, revokes the prior Executive Order 12472 (1984), and mandates a 60-day organizational plan from Homeland Security.
Accelerating Broadband Infrastructure Deployment
This executive order establishes a federal working group and mandates coordinated procedures to accelerate broadband infrastructure deployment on federal lands, buildings, and rights of way, with special attention to tribal lands and underserved communities. It requires agencies to develop uniform contract templates, improve permitting efficiency, and implement 'dig once' policies for highway construction projects.
To Implement the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement and for Other Purposes
This proclamation implements the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement by modifying the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to establish preferential tariff treatment for Colombian goods, remove Colombia from GSP/ATPA/ATPDEA beneficiary status, and delegate authority to the Secretary of Commerce, CITA, and USTR for trade administration. It also corrects technical errors in prior proclamations related to Oman, NAFTA, and Korea free trade agreements.
Supporting Safe and Responsible Development of Unconventional Domestic Natural Gas Resources
This executive order creates an interagency working group chaired by the Domestic Policy Council Director to coordinate federal agency efforts supporting safe and responsible development of unconventional domestic natural gas resources, such as shale gas. It aims to streamline policy coordination across 13+ agencies while maintaining environmental and public health safeguards.
Improving Performance of Federal Permitting and Review of Infrastructure Projects
This executive order creates a Steering Committee to streamline federal permitting and review processes for infrastructure projects, requiring agencies to develop performance plans with measurable timelines and track progress on a public dashboard. It mandates coordination across federal agencies, state/local/tribal governments, and stakeholders to reduce decision times while maintaining environmental and community protections.
National Defense Resources Preparedness
This executive order delegates authorities under the Defense Production Act of 1950 to various cabinet secretaries for prioritizing and allocating resources (food, energy, health, transportation, water, and other materials) in support of national defense. It establishes frameworks for loan guarantees, industrial base expansion, voluntary agreements, a National Defense Executive Reserve, and labor coordination during emergencies, while revoking and replacing Executive Order 12919 from 1994.
Establishing a White House Council on Strong Cities, Strong Communities
This executive order establishes a White House Council on Strong Cities, Strong Communities (SC2) within HUD to coordinate federal technical assistance to local communities, helping them compete for federal resources and develop economic strategies. The Council is co-chaired by the HUD Secretary and the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, with broad membership across federal agencies.
To Implement the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement
This proclamation implements the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) by modifying the Harmonized Tariff Schedule to establish preferential tariff treatment for Korean goods, with staged duty reductions. It delegates presidential authorities to the Secretary of Commerce, the Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements (CITA), and the U.S. Trade Representative for administering textile rules of origin, trade remedies, and congressional consultation requirements.
Establishment of the Interagency Trade Enforcement Center
This executive order creates the Interagency Trade Enforcement Center (ITEC) within the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to coordinate enforcement of U.S. trade rights under international agreements and domestic trade laws across multiple federal agencies. The Center brings together personnel from State, Treasury, Justice, Agriculture, Commerce, Homeland Security, and intelligence agencies to identify foreign trade barriers and unfair practices.
Driving Innovation and Creating Jobs in Rural America Through Biobased and Sustainable Product Procurement
This 2012 memorandum directs federal agencies to significantly increase procurement of biobased and sustainable products to promote rural economic development and job creation. It establishes specific targets for USDA to expand product designations by 50%, mandates reporting mechanisms, requires procurement system changes, and directs training and outreach for both federal acquisition personnel and small business suppliers.
Establishing Visa and Foreign Visitor Processing Goals and the Task Force On Travel and Competitiveness
This executive order establishes visa processing targets to boost U.S. travel and tourism, including a 40% capacity increase in China and Brazil and 80% of applicants interviewed within 3 weeks. It also creates a Task Force on Travel and Competitiveness to develop a National Travel and Tourism Strategy within 90 days.
Authorizing the Imposition of Certain Sanctions With Respect to the Provision of Goods, Services, Technology, or Support for Iran's Energy and Petrochemical Sectors
This executive order authorizes sanctions against individuals and entities that provide goods, services, technology, or support above specified dollar thresholds to Iran's petroleum development or petrochemical production sectors. The sanctions include blocking property, financial restrictions, export denial, and government procurement bans, and took effect immediately on November 21, 2011.
Making It Easier for America's Small Businesses and America's Exporters to Access Government Services to Help Them Grow and Hire
This memorandum directs executive agencies to create BusinessUSA, a unified online platform to help small businesses and exporters navigate federal programs and services. It establishes a Steering Committee co-chaired by the Federal CIO, CTO, and Chief Performance Officer to oversee development of the platform within 90 days, with agencies required to integrate their information and services into this "No Wrong Door" system.
Interagency Working Group on Coordination of Domestic Energy Development and Permitting in Alaska
This executive order establishes an interagency working group led by the Department of the Interior to coordinate federal permitting and environmental review processes for oil and gas development in Alaska, both onshore and offshore. The group brings together deputy-level officials from multiple agencies to streamline decision-making while maintaining health, safety, and environmental standards.
Establishment of the SelectUSA Initiative
This executive order establishes SelectUSA, a Department of Commerce-based initiative to coordinate federal efforts to attract and retain domestic and foreign business investment in the United States. It creates a Federal Interagency Investment Working Group spanning nearly every cabinet department and major economic agency to promote the U.S. as a business location, serve as an investment ombudsman, and provide information to investors.
Establishment of the White House Rural Council
This executive order creates the White House Rural Council, chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture and comprising 25 federal agencies, to coordinate federal policy and investment in rural communities. The Council is tasked with streamlining federal spending, improving economic opportunities, and enhancing quality of life in rural America through better interagency collaboration.
Establishment of the Intellectual Property Enforcement Advisory Committees
This executive order establishes two interagency advisory committees—the Senior Intellectual Property Enforcement Advisory Committee and the Intellectual Property Enforcement Advisory Committee—to coordinate federal intellectual property enforcement efforts. Both committees are chaired by the Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator and are tasked with developing triennial Joint Strategic Plans required under the PRO IP Act of 2008.
Fundamental Principles and Policymaking Criteria for Partnerships With Faith-Based and Other Neighborhood Organizations
This executive order amends Executive Order 13279 to establish constitutional and operational principles for federal partnerships with faith-based and neighborhood organizations. It mandates equal treatment of faith-based providers in federal social service funding while prohibiting religious discrimination against beneficiaries and requiring separation of explicitly religious activities from federally funded programs. The order creates an Interagency Working Group to ensure uniform implementation across agencies and requires a report within 120 days on model regulations and guidance.
Export Enforcement Coordination Center
This executive order establishes an interagency Export Enforcement Coordination Center within the Department of Homeland Security to improve coordination among federal agencies in enforcing U.S. export control laws. The Center serves as a forum for resolving enforcement conflicts, facilitates intelligence sharing between law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and tracks export control violations government-wide.
Establishing the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force
This executive order creates an intergovernmental task force to coordinate restoration of Gulf Coast ecosystems damaged by the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill and address long-term ecological decline. The Task Force includes federal agencies, five Gulf State representatives, and tribal representatives, and is charged with developing a regional restoration strategy within one year.
Establishing a Task Force on Skills for America's Future
This memorandum establishes an interagency Task Force on Skills for America's Future, co-chaired by the Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers and two White House policy assistants, to develop recommendations for improving workforce training partnerships between community colleges, businesses, labor unions, and other stakeholders. The Task Force is charged with identifying scalable approaches to career training, stackable credentials, and public-private partnerships, but has no dedicated funding or enforcement authority beyond voluntary agency coordination.
Delegation of Certain Functions and Authorities Under the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010
This memorandum delegates specific presidential authorities under the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 (as amended by CISADA) and CISADA itself to the Secretary of State, Secretary of the Treasury, Secretary of Commerce, Attorney General, U.S. Trade Representative, Federal Reserve Chairman, and Export-Import Bank President. It maintains a prior 1996 memorandum for certain provisions while reassigning others.
Stewardship of the Ocean, Our Coasts, and the Great Lakes
This executive order establishes a National Ocean Council to coordinate federal stewardship of oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes, implementing recommendations from the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force. It creates a framework for coastal and marine spatial planning to manage competing uses of marine environments while promoting ecosystem-based conservation. The order directs executive agencies to align their decisions with national ocean policy priorities and to participate in regional planning processes.
Optimizing the Security of Biological Select Agents and Toxins in the United States
This executive order directs a risk-based overhaul of how the U.S. regulates dangerous biological agents and toxins (BSAT). It mandates creating a highest-risk "Tier 1" subset of pathogens, revising security regulations, coordinating federal oversight across multiple agencies, and establishing an advisory panel to guide implementation.
Unleashing the Wireless Broadband Revolution
This memorandum directs federal agencies to free up 500 MHz of spectrum over 10 years for wireless broadband use, with the Commerce Department and NTIA leading coordination with the FCC. It mandates a Plan and Timetable by October 1, 2010, establishes an interagency steering group, and requires research into spectrum-sharing technologies, with progress reporting to the National Economic Council, OMB, and OSTP.
Task Force on Space Industry Workforce and Economic Development
President Obama established an interagency task force co-chaired by the Secretary of Commerce and NASA Administrator to develop an economic development action plan for Florida's Space Coast and other aerospace communities affected by the end of the Space Shuttle program. The task force must submit a comprehensive plan by August 15, 2010, recommending how to invest $40 million in transition assistance funding, and will terminate after 3 years unless extended.
Establishing an Interagency Task Force on Federal Contracting Opportunities for Small Businesses
This memorandum creates an Interagency Task Force on Federal Contracting Opportunities for Small Businesses, co-chaired by the Secretary of Commerce, OMB Director, and SBA Administrator. The Task Force must deliver proposals within 120 days to increase small business contracting, and a website for transparency must be developed within 90 days to track small business participation in federal procurement.
A 21st Century Strategy for America's Great Outdoors
This memorandum establishes the America's Great Outdoors Initiative, led by Interior, Agriculture, EPA, and CEQ, to reconnect Americans—especially children—with nature through community-based conservation, public-private partnerships, and interagency coordination. It mandates listening sessions across the country and requires three reports: an initial strategy report by November 15, 2010, and annual progress reports by September 30, 2011 and 2012.
National Export Initiative
This executive order creates the National Export Initiative (NEI) to double U.S. exports over five years and establishes an Export Promotion Cabinet of cabinet-level officials and agency heads to coordinate federal export promotion efforts. The order directs the Cabinet to develop programs supporting small and medium-sized business exports, increase export credit, reduce trade barriers, and produce a comprehensive implementation plan within 180 days.
A Comprehensive Federal Strategy on Carbon Capture and Storage
This memorandum establishes an Interagency Task Force on Carbon Capture and Storage co-chaired by DOE and EPA to develop a plan within 180 days to overcome barriers to deploying CCS technology. It aims to bring 5-10 commercial demonstration projects online by 2016, with the goal of widespread cost-effective CCS deployment within 10 years.
Employment of Veterans in the Federal Government
This executive order establishes a government-wide initiative to increase veteran hiring in the federal workforce by creating an interagency Council on Veterans Employment, requiring agencies to develop operational plans and designate veterans employment offices, and mandating training for HR personnel and hiring managers on veterans' preferences and special hiring authorities.
Increasing Participation of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Federal Programs
This executive order establishes a President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) housed in the Department of Education and a White House Initiative on AAPIs co-chaired by the Secretaries of Commerce and Education. The order directs federal agencies to develop plans to improve AAPI access to federal programs, increase AAPI federal workforce participation, and advance data collection and research on AAPI subpopulations.
Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy, and Economic Performance
This executive order mandates federal agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy and water efficiency, eliminate waste, and adopt sustainable practices in buildings, fleets, and procurement. It establishes a comprehensive framework with specific reduction targets, reporting requirements, and oversight mechanisms through the Council on Environmental Quality and Office of Management and Budget.
Presidential Determination On the Delegation of Certifications Under Section 1512 of Public Law 105-261
This determination delegates presidential certification functions under Section 1512 of the 1999 NDAA (Public Law 105-261) to the Secretary of Commerce. The Secretary must consult with other executive department and agency heads as appropriate when performing this responsibility.
Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees
This executive order continues 15 federal advisory committees for two years until September 30, 2011, superseding a prior Bush administration order. It also delegates presidential functions under the Federal Advisory Committee Act to the heads of designated departments and agencies.
Imports of Certain Passenger Vehicle and Light Truck Tires From the People's Republic of China
President Obama imposed additional tariffs on Chinese passenger vehicle and light truck tires for three years (35%, 30%, 25% ad valorem) following a USITC finding of market disruption under Section 421 of the Trade Act of 1974. The determination also directs Commerce and Labor to expedite Trade Adjustment Assistance for affected domestic workers and firms.
Establishing a White House Council on Automotive Communities and Workers
This executive order creates a White House Council on Automotive Communities and Workers to coordinate federal assistance for areas hit hard by auto industry job losses. The council includes cabinet secretaries and senior officials across multiple agencies, and is tasked with aligning federal programs to support automotive workers and communities. It automatically terminates after two years unless extended by the President.
Chesapeake Bay Protection and Restoration
This executive order establishes a coordinated federal framework to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. It creates a Federal Leadership Committee led by the EPA, mandates multiple agency reports on pollution control, agricultural practices, climate adaptation, and public access, and requires an annual action plan starting in 2010.
Establishing a White House Council on Women And Girls
This executive order creates a White House Council on Women and Girls to coordinate federal policy across agencies on issues affecting women and girls, including pay equity, healthcare access, educational opportunity, and workforce participation. The Council is advisory, composed of Cabinet secretaries and senior officials, and must submit an interagency plan within 150 days.
The Endangered Species Act
President Obama directs the Secretaries of Interior and Commerce to review a December 2008 Bush administration regulation that relaxed Endangered Species Act consultation requirements, and requests all agency heads to voluntarily continue pre-2008 consultation practices with FWS and NMFS pending that review. The memorandum does not itself revoke the regulation but uses discretionary language to encourage maintaining stricter interagency consultation.
Establishment of the White House Office of Urban Affairs
This executive order creates the White House Office of Urban Affairs within the Executive Office of the President to coordinate federal urban policy across departments and agencies. The Office is tasked with developing a comprehensive urban policy agenda, ensuring federal spending in urban areas is effective, and engaging with state/local officials and private stakeholders.
White House Task Force on Middle-Class Working Families
President Obama established a White House Task Force on Middle-Class Working Families, chaired by Vice President Biden, to recommend policies on education, work-family balance, labor standards, income protection, and retirement security. The Task Force includes cabinet secretaries and senior White House economic advisors, with annual public reports required starting one year from signing.