Department of Defense
Orders where directed actors are tied to Department of Defense · 135 in Obama · 690 all terms.
Roles directed
Orders
135 shown · Obama
Amending the Civil Service Rules, Executive Order 13488, and Executive Order 13467 To Modernize the Executive Branch-Wide Governance Structure and Processes for Security Clearances, Suitability and Fitness for Employment, and Credentialing, and Related Matters
This executive order restructures the federal government's security clearance, suitability, and credentialing systems by amending prior executive orders and Civil Service Rules. It establishes the National Background Investigations Bureau (NBIB) as the primary investigative service provider, creates a Performance Accountability Council to drive enterprise-wide reform, and designates specific executive agents (OPM for suitability/credentialing, DNI for security) to standardize vetting processes across agencies with emphasis on reciprocity, continuous vetting, and information technology modernization.
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.
Amending Executive Order 11016 To Update Eligibility Criteria for Award of the Purple Heart
This executive order updates Purple Heart eligibility criteria to include attacks motivated by foreign terrorist organizations (post-9/11), friendly fire incidents during armed conflict, and clarifies that wounds must be severe enough to require treatment by a medical officer. It also explicitly excludes wounds or deaths resulting from a service member's willful misconduct.
Supporting New American Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families
This memorandum establishes an interagency working group to improve coordination among federal agencies in providing immigration, veterans, and military benefits to foreign-born and naturalized service members, veterans, and their families. The group must convene within 10 days, produce a 3-year strategic plan within 30 days, and a detailed implementation plan within 120 days.
Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience
This executive order establishes the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area to protect marine ecosystems and Alaska Native subsistence communities from climate change impacts. It withdraws specified offshore areas from oil and gas leasing, creates an interagency task force and tribal advisory council, mandates consideration of traditional knowledge in federal decisionmaking, and directs the Coast Guard to develop shipping route protections and update spill response plans.
Presidential Determination and Waiver Pursuant to Section 2249a of Title 10, United States Code, and Sections 40 and 40A of the Arms Export Control Act to Support U.S. Special Operations to Combat Terrorism in Syria
This determination waives statutory prohibitions under the Arms Export Control Act and Title 10 to allow the Department of Defense to provide defense articles and services to foreign forces, irregular forces, groups, or individuals supporting U.S. counterterrorism operations in Syria. It delegates congressional notification responsibilities to the Secretaries of State and Defense, requiring 15-day advance notice before exports proceed or waivers take effect.
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 Global Health Security Agenda To Achieve a World Safe and Secure From Infectious Disease Threats
This executive order institutionalizes U.S. participation in the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA), a multinational initiative to strengthen countries' abilities to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats. It creates a new interagency council chaired by National Security Council staff, assigns specific roles to 13 agencies, and mandates reporting and external evaluation requirements through 2019.
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.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the National Security Workforce
This memorandum directs national security agencies to improve diversity and inclusion through data transparency, expanded demographic tracking, professional development programs, and leadership accountability measures. It requires annual public reporting on workforce demographics and inclusion metrics, with initial reports due within 90 days.
Transfer of Unified Command Plan Responsibilities
President Obama approved the Secretary of Defense's August 29, 2016 request to transfer certain responsibilities within the Unified Command Plan, which governs how U.S. military combatant commands are organized. The Secretary of Defense is directed to notify Congress of this change on the President's behalf and to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
Amending Executive Order 13467 To Establish the Roles and Responsibilities of the National Background Investigations Bureau and Related Matters
This executive order establishes the National Background Investigations Bureau (NBIB) within the Office of Personnel Management as the primary federal provider of personnel background investigations, while assigning the Department of Defense responsibility for designing, operating, and securing the underlying IT systems. It also mandates governance reforms to clarify executive authorities over security, suitability, and credentialing vetting processes.
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.
Transfer of Unified Command Plan Responsibilities
President Obama approved the Secretary of Defense's request to transfer certain responsibilities within the Unified Command Plan, which governs the command structure of U.S. military forces. The Secretary is directed to notify Congress of this change and to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
This determination certifies that Colombia meets statutory requirements for U.S. drug interdiction assistance, specifically allowing support for intercepting aircraft suspected of illicit drug trafficking in Colombian airspace. The certification requires Colombia to have procedures protecting against innocent loss of life, including warning protocols before use of force.
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.
A Comprehensive Approach to Atrocity Prevention and Response
This executive order institutionalizes the Atrocities Prevention Board (APB) originally established by Presidential Study Directive-10 in 2012, formalizing its structure, membership, and operational protocols across national security agencies. It mandates interagency coordination on monitoring, early warning, deterrence, and response to mass atrocities and genocide, with specific requirements for intelligence collection, civilian capacity deployment, training, and annual reporting to the President and public.
Establishing the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal
This executive order establishes a new military campaign medal for U.S. Armed Forces members who served in Iraq, Syria, or surrounding areas beginning June 15, 2014. It allows eligible service members to receive this medal in lieu of the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for the same period, but prohibits receiving both medals for identical service.
Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Parity Task Force
This memorandum establishes an interagency Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Parity Task Force to coordinate implementation of federal parity protections ensuring mental health and substance use disorder coverage is comparable to medical/surgical care. The Task Force, chaired by the Domestic Policy Council Director and comprising nine agency heads, is charged with identifying best practices, addressing guidance gaps, and submitting a public report by October 31, 2016.
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.
Developing an Integrated Global Engagement Center To Support Government-wide Counterterrorism Communications Activities Directed Abroad and Revoking Executive Order 13584
This executive order establishes the Global Engagement Center (GEC) within the State Department to coordinate U.S. government communications aimed at foreign audiences to counter terrorist messaging from ISIL, al-Qa'ida, and other violent extremists. It replaces the temporary organization created by Executive Order 13584 with a permanent center supported by a temporary coordination office (GECCO) and an interagency steering committee.
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.
Promoting Smart Gun Technology
This memorandum directs the Departments of Defense, Justice, and Homeland Security to research and promote 'smart gun' technology—such as fingerprint-activated firearms—to reduce accidental shootings and unauthorized use. It requires a joint report within 90 days on a research and development strategy, and instructs departments to consider whether such technology should be included in federal firearm acquisition specifications.
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 Reporting Functions Specified in Section 941 of the Fiscal Year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act
This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of Defense the President's reporting functions under Section 941 of the FY2014 NDAA, which concerns security cooperation with foreign countries. The Secretary of Defense must consult with the Secretary of State and other agencies as appropriate when carrying out these functions.
Distribution of Department of Defense Funded Humanitarian Assistance in Syria
President Obama waived a statutory prohibition (10 U.S.C. § 2249a(a)) that would have blocked the Department of Defense from distributing humanitarian assistance in Syria, citing urgent refugee crisis needs and broader U.S. stability objectives in the Middle East. The waiver allows DOD-funded humanitarian aid to flow into Syria under 10 U.S.C. § 2561.
Mitigating Impacts on Natural Resources From Development and Encouraging Related Private Investment
This 2015 presidential memorandum directs five federal agencies to adopt consistent policies for mitigating environmental impacts from development, with emphasis on avoiding and minimizing harm before compensating for it. It establishes principles for advance compensation, mitigation banking, and private investment in restoration, and sets specific deadlines for agencies to develop new guidance and regulations.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
This presidential determination certifies that Colombia meets statutory requirements for U.S. assistance in aerial drug interdiction, continuing a long-standing counter-narcotics program. It authorizes U.S. support for intercepting aircraft suspected of illicit drug trafficking in Colombian airspace, contingent on Colombia maintaining procedures to minimize civilian casualties. The determination requires publication in the Federal Register and congressional notification.
Implementing the National HIV/AIDS Strategy for the United States for 2015-2020
This executive order implements the updated 2015-2020 National HIV/AIDS Strategy, directing federal agencies to develop action plans, coordinate efforts, and report progress on reducing HIV infections, improving care access, and addressing disparities. It establishes a Federal Interagency Working Group and assigns specific responsibilities to lead agencies including HHS, Defense, Justice, and others.
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.
Establishment of the Basin and Range National Monument
President Obama established the Basin and Range National Monument in southeastern Nevada, withdrawing approximately 704,000 acres of federal land from mining, mineral leasing, and other disposition under public land laws. The proclamation directs the Secretary of the Interior to manage the monument through BLM and prepare a management plan within 3 years with public involvement, while preserving existing rights including livestock grazing, water rights, tribal access to sacred sites, and military training uses.
Delegation of Authority Pursuant to Section 1035 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013
This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of Defense the President's authority to fulfill certification requirements under Section 1035 of the NDAA for FY2013, which relates to the transfer or release of Guantanamo Bay detainees. It also ensures the delegation applies to any substantially similar future provisions.
Hostage Recovery Activities
This executive order creates a unified interagency structure for recovering U.S. nationals held hostage abroad, establishing the Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell within the FBI, a Hostage Response Group at the National Security Council level, and a Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the State Department. It mandates coordination across intelligence, law enforcement, diplomatic, and military agencies while maintaining the no-concessions policy.
Delegation of Authority Pursuant to Section 8 of the United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2014
This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of State the President's reporting requirement under Section 8 of the United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2014, requiring consultation with the Secretary of Defense and other agencies as appropriate. The Secretary of State is also directed to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
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.
Determination and Waiver Pursuant to Section 1209 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 Regarding the Provision of Assistance to Appropriately Vetted Elements of the Syrian Opposition
President Obama waived statutory restrictions under the Arms Export Control Act and Title 10 to allow the Department of Defense, coordinating with State, to provide training, equipment, supplies, stipends, and facility construction to vetted Syrian opposition groups. This determination authorized the Syria Train and Equip program established by Section 1209 of the FY2015 NDAA.
Promoting Private Sector Cybersecurity Information Sharing
This executive order encourages voluntary formation of Information Sharing and Analysis Organizations (ISAOs) to enable private sector cybersecurity information sharing with the federal government. It establishes a standards-setting process for ISAOs, designates DHS's NCCIC as a critical infrastructure protection program, and amends the National Industrial Security Program to facilitate classified information sharing with private sector partners under voluntary agreements.
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.
Federal Support for Local Law Enforcement Equipment Acquisition
This executive order creates an interagency working group to review and standardize federal programs that provide military-style equipment to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. The group must develop recommendations for controlled equipment lists, training requirements, civil rights compliance, and oversight mechanisms, with initial reports due in 60 days and final recommendations in 120 days.
Ordering the Selected Reserve and Certain Individual Ready Reserve Members of the Armed Forces to Active Duty
This executive order authorizes the mobilization of Selected Reserve and certain Individual Ready Reserve members to active duty to support Operation United Assistance, the U.S. military's humanitarian response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The order delegates authority to the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Homeland Security (for Coast Guard) to activate reserve units and essential individual members, and to later terminate their active service.
Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Brazil
President Obama certified that Brazil meets statutory requirements to receive U.S. assistance for aerial drug interdiction, finding that illicit drug trafficking poses an extraordinary threat to Brazil's national security and that Brazil has adequate procedures to protect innocent life during interdiction operations. The determination authorizes continued or expanded U.S. support for Brazil's counter-narcotics air interdiction program under Section 1012 of the FY1995 NDAA.
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.
Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
This executive order establishes a government-wide framework to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by creating an interagency task force, a presidential advisory council, and mandating specific actions including antibiotic stewardship programs in healthcare facilities, strengthened surveillance systems, promotion of new drug development, and international cooperation. It sets concrete deadlines for a national action plan and regulatory reviews to address what the CDC identified as at least 23,000 annual U.S. deaths from resistant infections.
Drawdown Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 for France To Support Its Counterterrorism Efforts in Mali, Niger, and Chad
President Obama authorized an emergency drawdown of up to $10 million in Department of Defense services to support France's counterterrorism operations in Mali, Niger, and Chad, citing an unforeseen emergency under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. The determination directs the Secretaries of State and Defense to implement the assistance and report to Congress.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
This determination certifies that Colombia meets statutory conditions for U.S. assistance in interdicting aircraft suspected of drug trafficking in Colombian airspace, continuing a long-standing counternarcotics program. It requires the Secretary of State to publish the determination in the Federal Register and notify Congress.
Creating a Federal Strategy To Promote the Health of Honey Bees and Other Pollinators
This memorandum establishes the Pollinator Health Task Force co-chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture and EPA Administrator, directing federal agencies to develop a National Pollinator Health Strategy within 180 days and take immediate steps to expand pollinator habitat on federal lands, revise landscaping guidance, assess pesticide impacts, and increase conservation program acreage for pollinators.
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.
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.
Federal Leadership on Energy Management
This memorandum directs federal agencies to obtain 20% of their electricity from renewable sources by fiscal year 2020, with interim targets starting at 10% in 2015. It also mandates improved building energy management through metering, benchmarking via EPA's Energy Star Portfolio Manager, and adoption of the Green Button data access system, with multiple deadlines for implementation guidance.
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.
Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Brazil
This determination certifies that Brazil meets statutory criteria to receive U.S. assistance for aerial drug interdiction, finding that illicit drug trafficking poses an extraordinary threat to Brazil's national security and that Brazil has adequate procedures to protect innocent life during interdiction operations. The Secretary of State must publish the determination in the Federal Register and notify Congress.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
This presidential determination certifies that Colombia meets statutory conditions for U.S. assistance in aerial drug interdiction under the 1995 NDAA. It continues existing authority for the U.S. to support Colombia in intercepting aircraft suspected of illicit drug trafficking, contingent on Colombia maintaining procedures to minimize innocent casualties.
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.
Delegation of Reporting Functions Specified in Section 491 of Title 10, United State Code
This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of Defense the President's statutory reporting functions under section 491 of title 10, U.S. Code, which relates to Department of Defense matters. It is a routine administrative delegation of authority with no substantive policy changes.
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.
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.
Drawdown Pursuant to Section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 of up to $10 Million in Commodities and Services From Any Agency of the United States Government to the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) and the Syrian Opposition's Supreme Military Council (SMC)
This presidential determination authorizes an emergency drawdown of up to $10 million in nonlethal commodities and services from any U.S. government agency to provide food and medical supplies to the Syrian Opposition Coalition and the Supreme Military Council for distribution to those in need. The determination waives normal legal restrictions under the Foreign Assistance Act, citing an unforeseen emergency and U.S. national security interests.
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.
Drawdown Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Amended, for Chad and France To Support Their Efforts in Mali
President Obama authorized an emergency drawdown of up to $50 million in Defense Department services and equipment to assist Chad and France in their military operations against terrorists and violent extremists in Mali. The determination was made under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, bypassing normal Arms Export Control Act procedures due to an unforeseen emergency.
Improving Availability of Relevant Executive Branch Records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System
This memorandum directs federal agencies to improve sharing of relevant records with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent prohibited individuals from obtaining firearms. It establishes deadlines for DOJ guidance, agency reporting, and creates a working group to coordinate implementation of the 2007 NICS Improvement Amendments Act.
Delegation of Certain Functions Under Section 6 of Public Law 112-150
This memorandum delegates presidential functions under Section 6 of the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-150) to the Secretary of State, to be exercised in coordination with the Secretary of Defense. The delegated functions involve identifying and imposing sanctions on individuals responsible for gross violations of human rights in Russia.
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.
Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Brazil
President Obama certified that Brazil meets statutory requirements to receive U.S. assistance for interdicting aircraft suspected of drug trafficking in its airspace, finding that such interdiction is necessary due to the extraordinary threat of drug trafficking and that Brazil has procedures to protect innocent life. The determination requires publication in the Federal Register and congressional notification.
Regarding the Acquisition of Four U.S. Wind Farm Project Companies by Ralls Corporation
President Obama issued a rare presidential order under the Defense Production Act blocking a Chinese-owned company (Ralls Corporation, affiliated with Sany Group) from acquiring four Oregon wind farm projects near a U.S. Navy weapons systems training facility. The order mandates divestment within 90 days (extendable by 3 months), removal of all equipment within 14 days, and imposes ongoing CFIUS oversight and compliance verification.
Improving Access to Mental Health Services for Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families
This executive order directs multiple federal agencies to expand mental health services for veterans, service members, and military families through suicide prevention programs, community provider partnerships, increased staffing, and a national research action plan on PTSD and traumatic brain injury. It establishes an interagency task force to coordinate implementation and requires specific deliverables including expanded crisis line capacity, pilot projects with community providers, and hiring of 800 peer counselors and 1,600 mental health professionals.
Preventing and Responding to Violence Against Women and Girls Globally
This executive order establishes a multi-year U.S. government strategy to prevent and respond to gender-based violence globally, creating an Interagency Working Group co-chaired by the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator. It mandates coordination across multiple federal agencies, integration of anti-violence programming into existing foreign policy and assistance efforts, improved data collection and research, and periodic reporting with benchmarks, progress reports, and eventual strategy revision.
Ensuring the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) Protections
This memorandum directs federal agencies to strengthen compliance with USERRA, which protects service members from employment discrimination and ensures their reemployment rights. It establishes an interagency working group, mandates new guidance on data collection and best practices, and sets specific deadlines for reporting and implementation.
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.
Establishing Principles of Excellence for Educational Institutions Serving Service Members, Veterans, Spouses, and Other Family Members
This executive order creates consumer protections for military members, veterans, and their families using federal education benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Tuition Assistance Program. It establishes 'Principles of Excellence' requiring schools receiving these funds to provide clear cost information, end deceptive recruiting, ensure academic support, and strengthen complaint and enforcement systems across the Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Education.
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.
Delegation of Reporting Functions Specified in Section 1045 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012, and Condition 9 of the Resolution of Advice and Consent to Ratification of the Treaty Between the United States of America and the Russian Federation on the Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms (the "New Start Treaty")
President Obama delegates reporting functions related to the New START Treaty and a 2012 defense law from the President to the Secretaries of Defense and Energy, with one subsection requiring coordination with the Secretary of State. The Secretary of Defense is directed to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
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.
Delegation of Waiver Authority Under Section 1022(a)(4) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012
This memorandum delegates to the Attorney General the President's authority under Section 1022(a)(4) of the FY2012 NDAA to waive certain requirements of the Act, specifically the military custody requirement for detainees. The Attorney General must exercise this authority in consultation with senior national security officials including the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Homeland Security, the DNI, CIA Director, FBI Director, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Delegation of Reporting Function Specified In Section 1043 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012
This memorandum delegates the President's reporting function under Section 1043 of the NDAA for FY 2012 to the Secretaries of Defense and Energy. The Secretary of Defense is directed to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
Establishing the President's Global Development Council
This executive order creates a 12-member advisory council within USAID to advise the President on global development policy, promote public-private partnerships, and elevate development as a pillar of U.S. foreign policy alongside diplomacy and defense. The council includes cabinet secretaries as non-voting members and outside experts from academia, philanthropy, civil society, and private industry, with a built-in 2-year sunset clause.
Delegation of Certain Function Under Section 308(a) of the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012
This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, the presidential function of providing specified information to Congress under Section 308(a) of the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012. It is a routine administrative delegation of a statutory reporting requirement.
Assignment of Functions Relating to Certain Promotion and Appointment Actions in the Armed Forces
This executive order delegates specific presidential authority over military officer promotions and appointments to the Secretary of Defense, including reports on general/flag officer grades, extensions of promotion eligibility periods, and appointments of Marine Band and Drum and Bugle Corps members. The Secretary may reassign most functions only to Senate-confirmed civilian officers in his office, except Marine Band appointments which cannot be reassigned.
Instituting a National Action Plan On Women, Peace, And Security
This executive order establishes a National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, directing federal agencies to integrate gender-responsive approaches into diplomatic, development, and defense work in conflict-affected environments. It mandates State, Defense, and USAID to create implementation plans and requires periodic review with civil society consultation.
Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Brazil
President Obama certified Brazil as eligible for U.S. drug interdiction assistance under the 1995 NDAA, specifically allowing support for intercepting aircraft suspected of drug trafficking in Brazilian airspace. The determination requires Brazil to have procedures protecting innocent life, including warning aircraft before force is used.
Structural Reforms To Improve the Security of Classified Networks and the Responsible Sharing and Safeguarding of Classified Information
This executive order establishes a comprehensive framework for securing classified computer networks across the federal government following WikiLeaks disclosures. It creates new interagency bodies to coordinate policies, designates the NSA and Defense Secretary as technical standards authorities, mandates insider threat programs at all agencies, and requires binding minimum standards for detecting and preventing unauthorized disclosures.
Developing an Integrated Strategic Counterterrorism Communications Initiative and Establishing a Temporary Organization to Support Certain Government-wide Communications Activities Directed Abroad
This executive order establishes a Center for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications within the State Department to coordinate U.S. government-wide counterterrorism messaging abroad, and creates a temporary Counterterrorism Communications Support Office to provide research and campaign support. Both entities focus on countering al-Qa'ida and violent extremist ideologies through strategic communications to foreign audiences.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
President Obama certified that Colombia meets statutory requirements for U.S. assistance in interdicting aircraft suspected of drug trafficking, continuing a program that allows U.S. support for aerial interdiction in Colombian airspace. The determination requires Colombia to have procedures protecting against innocent loss of life, including warning aircraft before force is used.
Delegation of Certain Function and Authority Conferred Upon the President by Section 1535(c)(1) of the Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011
This memorandum delegates the President's authority under Section 1535(c)(1) of the FY2011 NDAA to the Secretary of State, requiring coordination with the Secretary of Defense, to submit a specified report to six congressional committees on armed services, foreign relations/affairs, and appropriations.
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.
Drawdown Pursuant to Section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Amended, of up to $25 Million in Commodities and Services from any Agency of the United States Government for Libyan Groups, such as the Transitional National Council, to Support Efforts to Protect Civilians and Civilian-Populated Areas Under Threat of Attack in Libya
President Obama authorized an emergency drawdown of up to $25 million in nonlethal commodities and services from U.S. government agencies to support Libyan groups including the Transitional National Council, citing an unforeseen emergency to protect civilians under threat of attack in Libya. The determination was made under Section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.
Delegation of Functions and Authority Under Sections 315 and 325 of Title 32, United States Code
This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of Defense the President's authority under two sections of Title 32, U.S. Code: (1) allowing Regular Army/Air Force officers to accept National Guard commissions without losing rank, and (2) authorizing National Guard officers to serve on active duty while remaining in state National Guard duty, including advance authorization for command succession. It supersedes a 2004 delegation of the section 325 authority.
Unified Command Plan 2011
The President, acting as Commander in Chief, approves and directs implementation of the revised Unified Command Plan 2011, and directs the Secretary of Defense to notify Congress of this approval as required by statute.
Periodic Review of Individuals Detained at Guantánamo Bay Naval Station Pursuant to the Authorization for Use of Military Force
This executive order establishes a Periodic Review Board (PRB) process to evaluate whether Guantánamo detainees designated for continued law of war detention still pose a significant threat to U.S. security. It mandates initial reviews within one year, subsequent full reviews every three years, and interim file reviews every six months, while explicitly preserving existing detention authority and habeas corpus rights without creating new legal grounds for release into the United States.
Annual Update to the Report Specified in Section 1251 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111-84)
This memorandum directs the Secretaries of Defense and Energy to jointly provide annual updates to the 1251 Report on nuclear weapons policy, beginning in 2011, with submissions timed to coincide with the President's budget each year. The Secretary of Defense is also directed to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
Disestablishment of United States Joint Forces Command
President Obama approved the disestablishment of United States Joint Forces Command (USJFCOM), accepting recommendations from the Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The actual effective date was left to the Secretary of Defense's determination, and Congress was to be notified. The action was to be reflected in the 2010 Unified Command Plan.
Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Brazil
President Obama certified Brazil as eligible for U.S. drug interdiction assistance under the 1995 NDAA, specifically authorizing support for intercepting aircraft suspected of illicit drug trafficking in Brazilian airspace. The certification requires Brazil to have procedures protecting against innocent loss of life, including warning protocols before use of force.
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.
Classified National Security Information Program for State, Local, Tribal, and Private Sector Entities
This executive order establishes a formal program for sharing classified national security information with state, local, tribal, and private sector entities involved in critical infrastructure protection. It sets security standards for access and safeguarding, designates Homeland Security as the executive agent, and creates an advisory committee to resolve policy disputes and facilitate information sharing.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
This presidential determination certifies that Colombia meets statutory requirements to receive continued U.S. assistance for aerial drug interdiction, including the ability to identify and warn suspected drug trafficking aircraft before using force. The determination extends existing authority under the 1995 NDAA rather than creating new policy.
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.
Implementation of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy
This memorandum directs federal agencies to implement the newly released National HIV/AIDS Strategy and Federal Implementation Plan. It designates lead agencies (HHS, DOJ, DOL, HUD, VA, SSA), assigns coordination roles to the White House Office of National AIDS Policy and HHS Secretary, and requires specific action plans from lead agencies, DOD, State Department, and EEOC within 150 days.
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.
Designating the Chairperson of the Defense Production Act Committee
This memorandum establishes the Secretary of Homeland Security and Secretary of Defense as rotating annual chairpersons of the Defense Production Act Committee, with DHS serving first. It directs the two secretaries to formalize funding and administrative support through an interagency agreement and instructs the Chairperson to invite all Committee members to meetings and ensure statutory reporting requirements are fulfilled.
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.
Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development
This executive order establishes an Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development within the Small Business Administration to coordinate federal efforts to improve capital access, contracting opportunities, and business development support for small businesses owned by veterans and service-disabled veterans. The Task Force includes representatives from seven federal agencies and four veterans' organizations, and must report annually to the President on its activities and proposals.
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.
Ordering the Selected Reserve and Certain Individual Ready Reserve Members of the Armed Forces to Active Duty
This executive order authorizes mobilization of Selected Reserve and certain Individual Ready Reserve members to active duty to support Haiti earthquake relief operations following the January 12, 2010 earthquake. It delegates activation authority to the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Homeland Security (for Coast Guard) without specifying unit numbers or duration limits.
Establishment of the Council of Governors
This executive order creates a 10-member Council of Governors appointed by the President to advise federal officials on National Guard matters, homeland defense, civil support, and coordination between state and federal military activities. The bipartisan council, co-chaired by two governors from different parties, reports to the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security and other national security officials.
Establishing Federal Capability for the Timely Provision of Medical Countermeasures Following a Biological Attack
This executive order directs federal agencies to establish capabilities for rapidly delivering medical countermeasures to Americans following a biological attack. It mandates creation of a U.S. Postal Service-based dispensing model, a federal rapid response system, and continuity plans to ensure mission-essential government functions continue during such an emergency.
Implementation of the Executive Order, "Classified National Security Information"
This memorandum directs executive departments and agencies to implement a new executive order on classified national security information, setting deadlines for agencies to issue implementing regulations, requiring a review of original classification authority delegations, mandating clearance of a 400-million-page declassification backlog by end of 2013, and directing research into new declassification technologies.
Original Classification Authority
This presidential order designates specific Executive Office and agency officials with authority to originally classify information as 'Top Secret' or 'Secret' under Executive Order 13526 on classified national security information. It revokes prior classification designations while preserving certain delegations made under the previous executive order regime.
Classified National Security Information
This executive order establishes a comprehensive uniform system for classifying, safeguarding, and declassifying national security information. It sets specific standards for original classification, mandates automatic declassification of most records after 25 years, prohibits classification to conceal wrongdoing or embarrassment, and creates oversight mechanisms including the Interagency Security Classification Appeals Panel and the National Declassification Center.
Directing Certain Actions With Respect to Acquisition and Use of Thomson Correctional Center To Facilitate Closure of Detention Facilities at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base
This memorandum directs the Attorney General to acquire and activate the Thomson Correctional Center in Illinois as a federal penitentiary, with a portion reserved for Department of Defense operation to house Guantanamo detainees. The Secretary of Defense is directed to prepare the facility and relocate designated Guantanamo detainees there, consistent with applicable laws and Executive Order 13492.
Directing Certain Actions with Respect to Acquisition and Use of Thomson Correctional Center to Facilitate Closure of Detention Facilities at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base
This memorandum directs the Attorney General to acquire and activate the Thomson Correctional Center in Illinois as a federal penitentiary and to provide a portion to the Department of Defense for detainee housing. The Secretary of Defense is directed to prepare the facility and relocate Guantanamo Bay detainees there, consistent with Executive Order 13492 and applicable laws.
Assignment of Functions Under the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010; the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2010; and the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010
This memorandum assigns specific congressional reporting and consultation functions to the Secretary of Defense, Attorney General, and Secretary of State regarding detainee custody and transfers. The functions derive from four appropriations and authorization acts, splitting responsibilities based on whether detainees remain in Defense custody, transfer to Justice custody, or involve State Department diplomatic matters.
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.
Provision of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Brazil
President Obama certified Brazil as eligible for U.S. drug interdiction assistance under a 1995 statute, specifically authorizing support for intercepting aircraft suspected of illicit drug trafficking in Brazilian airspace. The determination requires Brazil to have procedures protecting against innocent loss of life, including warning protocols before use of force.
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.
Continuation of U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance to the Government of Colombia
This determination certifies that Colombia meets statutory conditions for U.S. assistance in interdicting aircraft suspected of illicit drug trafficking, continuing authority originally granted under a 1995 law. It requires Colombia to have procedures protecting innocent life, including warning aircraft before use of force.
Assignment of Reporting Functions Under the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009
This memorandum delegates specific congressional reporting requirements under the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009 to the Attorney General, Director of National Intelligence, and Secretary of State. It assigns responsibility for various reports and plans related to sections 319 and 14103 of that law.
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.
Delegation of Certain Functions Under Section 201 of Public Law 110-429
This memorandum delegates presidential functions under subsections (a), (b), and (c) of section 201 of Public Law 110-429 (the Naval Vessel Transfer Act of 2008) to the Secretary of State, to be exercised in coordination with the Secretary of Defense. It is a routine interagency delegation of statutory authority with no substantive policy changes.
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.
Government Contracting
This March 4, 2009 memorandum directs the OMB Director, in collaboration with other agency heads, to develop government-wide guidance by July 1, 2009 and September 30, 2009 to reduce noncompetitive and cost-reimbursement contracts, increase fixed-price contracts, strengthen contract oversight, and clarify when outsourcing of inherently governmental functions is inappropriate. It responds to sharp increases in sole-source and cost-reimbursement contracting since 2001 and aims to improve value for taxpayers.
Ensuring Lawful Interrogations
This executive order revoked the prior Bush-era interrogation framework, mandating that all U.S. government interrogations in armed conflicts comply with the Army Field Manual and Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions. It ordered closure of CIA detention facilities, required Red Cross access to detainees, and established an interagency task force to review interrogation and transfer policies.
Review and Disposition of Individuals Detained At the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base and Closure of Detention Facilities
This executive orders the closure of the Guantánamo Bay detention facilities within one year and mandates an immediate, comprehensive interagency review of all detainees to determine whether they should be transferred, released, prosecuted in federal court, or handled through other lawful means. It also halts all military commission proceedings during the review period and requires detention conditions to comply with Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions.
Review of Detention Policy Options
This executive order establishes a Special Interagency Task Force on Detainee Disposition, co-chaired by the Attorney General and Secretary of Defense, to review lawful options for handling individuals captured in armed conflicts and counterterrorism operations. The task force must report to the President within 180 days on detention, trial, transfer, release, and other disposition alternatives consistent with national security interests and justice.