Directives Published August 2025

Presidential directives and executive orders issued by the White House in August 2025.

Summary

  • 28th Aug 25 The President issued an order establishing a preference for classical and traditional architectural styles for new and renovated Federal buildings, instructing the GSA to update its policies accordingly. View
  • 28th Aug 25 President Trump proclaimed August 31 through September 6, 2025 as Overdose Prevention Week, highlighting the opioid crisis and urging Americans to participate in awareness programs. View
  • 28th Aug 25 President Trump issued a proclamation declaring September 1st, 2025, as Labor Day, honoring American workers' contributions and resilience. View
  • 28th Aug 25 The President ordered an investigation into the illegal use of federal grant funds for lobbying and partisan political activities, directing the Attorney General to conduct the investigation and report back within 180 days. View
  • 28th Aug 25 This presidential action amended Executive Order 12171 to further exclude certain agencies from the Federal Labor-Management Relations Program and extended related deadlines. View
  • 27th Aug 25 The President issued a proclamation ordering flags to be flown at half-staff to honor the victims of the Minneapolis tragedy. View
  • 25th Aug 25 A proclamation was issued commemorating the fourth anniversary of the Abbey Gate attack, honoring fallen service members and condemning the actions of those responsible. View
  • 25th Aug 25 Federal funding to jurisdictions with cashless bail policies was reviewed and potentially suspended or terminated, with the Attorney General identifying such jurisdictions based on public safety concerns. View
  • 25th Aug 25 The President issued an order directing Federal agencies to address the crime emergency in Washington, D.C., by ending cashless bail, increasing pretrial detention, and reviewing D.C. police policies. View
  • 25th Aug 25 The president issued an order prioritizing the prosecution of American flag desecration and instructing relevant agencies to take action, including utilizing immigration enforcement against foreign nationals. View
  • 25th Aug 25 The president ordered additional measures to address a crime emergency in Washington, D.C., directing federal agencies to increase law enforcement and improve public safety. View
  • 21st Aug 25 The president established the "America by Design" initiative, created the National Design Studio, appointed a Chief Design Officer, and directed federal agencies to improve the design and usability of their services. View
  • 21st Aug 25 A presidential permit was issued authorizing Cameron County, Texas to construct, maintain, and operate a pedestrian border crossing at the Gateway International Bridge. View
  • 14th Aug 25 President Trump proclaimed August 14, 2025, as the 90th Anniversary of the Social Security Act. View
  • 13th Aug 25 President Trump revoked Executive Order 14036, Promoting Competition in the American Economy, and established general provisions for implementing the revocation. View
  • 13th Aug 25 The president ordered several federal agencies to streamline regulations, expedite permit approvals for commercial space launches and spaceport development, and create a new process for authorizing novel space activities to enhance American competitiveness in the space industry. View
  • 13th Aug 25 The President ordered the replenishment of the Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve (SAPIR) with a six-month supply of APIs for critical medicines, mandated the planning for a second SAPIR, and directed updates to essential medicines lists. View
  • 12th Aug 25 The President extended the suspension of additional tariffs on selected Chinese goods, citing ongoing progress in trade discussions with the PRC. View
  • 11th Aug 25 The President mobilized the D.C. National Guard and authorized additional National Guard deployments to address rising crime rates in Washington D.C. View
  • 11th Aug 25 A crime emergency was declared in the District of Columbia, and the Metropolitan Police Department was federally authorized to maintain law and order, protect federal property, and ensure the federal government's orderly functions. View
  • 7th Aug 25 The President issued an order directing the Department of Labor and the Securities and Exchange Commission to revise regulations and guidance to increase access to alternative asset investments in 401(k) and similar plans. View
  • 7th Aug 25 Federal banking regulators were directed to remove politicized debanking considerations from their guidance and investigate institutions engaging in such practices; the SBA was tasked with reinstating clients unfairly denied services. View
  • 7th Aug 25 The President directed the Secretary of Education to improve the IPEDS data system, expand admissions reporting requirements, and increase accuracy checks of submitted data to enhance transparency in higher education. View
  • 7th Aug 25 The President issued an executive order improving oversight of federal grantmaking, implementing stricter review processes, revising grant terms, and strengthening accountability for the use of taxpayer funds. View
  • 6th Aug 25 A 25 percent ad valorem duty was imposed on Indian imports due to indirect imports of Russian oil, monitoring mechanisms were put in place for further action, and a delegation of authority for order implementation was made. View
  • 5th Aug 25 A White House Task Force was established to coordinate federal planning and response related to the security and logistics of the 2028 Summer Olympics. View
  • 1st Aug 25 Increased tariffs on specific Canadian goods to 35%, implemented additional penalties for transshipment to evade duties, and established a framework for monitoring and further action regarding cross-border drug trafficking. View
  • 1st Aug 25 The White House nominated Edward Forst to be Administrator of General Services. View
  • 1st Aug 25 The President modified reciprocal tariff rates, adjusting duties on goods from numerous countries based on bilateral trade negotiations and national security concerns. View

Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again

Published: Thu 28th Aug 25

This Presidential order establishes a preference for classical and traditional architecture in the design of Federal buildings costing over $50 million.

It cites the Founding Fathers' preference for classical designs and criticizes the modernist and Brutalist styles prevalent since the 1960s.

The order directs the General Services Administration (GSA) to update its policies, build expertise in classical architectural design, and create a new senior advisor position focused on classical architecture.

Exceptions to the preferred style will require 30-day prior notification to the President.

The order seeks to uplift and beautify public spaces while reflecting the dignity and stability of the American government.

Overdose Prevention Week, 2025

President Trump's proclamation declares August 31 to September 6, 2025, as Overdose Prevention Week.

The proclamation emphasizes the devastating impact of the opioid crisis, particularly the role of fentanyl.

It highlights the administration's actions, including the HALT Fentanyl Act and border security measures, while calling on Americans to participate in awareness programs and activities to prevent drug overdoses.

Labor Day, 2025

Published: Thu 28th Aug 25

President Donald J. Trump's Labor Day 2025 proclamation pays tribute to the American worker's historical contributions and the administration's efforts to prioritize them.

The proclamation celebrates the workforce as the foundation of the American economy and emphasizes the administration's commitment to restoring the dignity of labor by bringing jobs back to America, boosting American manufacturing, and securing fair trade deals.

It declares September 1st, 2025, as Labor Day, calling upon citizens to observe the day with appropriate celebrations.

Use of Appropriated Funds for Illegal Lobbying and Partisan Political Activity by Federal Grantees

Published: Thu 28th Aug 25

President Donald J. Trump issued a memorandum ordering an investigation into the potential misuse of federal grant funds for illegal lobbying and partisan political activities.

The memorandum directs the Attorney General, in consultation with relevant agencies, to investigate whether grant funds are being illegally used to support lobbying or political activity, and to report back within 180 days.

The President asserted that the misuse of funds is wasteful, potentially fraudulent and raises serious legal concerns.

The memorandum includes provisions safeguarding existing executive department and agency authority.

Further Exclusions from the Federal Labor-Management Relations Program

This Presidential Order further amends Executive Order 12171, excluding additional agencies and subdivisions from the Federal Labor-Management Relations Program due to their primary focus on intelligence, counterintelligence, investigative, or national security work.

The order also extends a deadline for implementing the exclusions under Executive Order 14251 and includes a severability clause to ensure the order's remaining provisions remain valid if parts are challenged.

Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Published: Wed 27th Aug 25

President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation ordering the United States flag to be flown at half-staff at all federal buildings and facilities, both domestically and internationally, from August 27th, 2025, until sunset on August 31st, 2025.

This action is in response to the senseless acts of violence that occurred on August 27th, 2025, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as a mark of respect for the victims.

Fourth Anniversary of the Attack at Abbey Gate, 2025

President Trump's August 25, 2025, proclamation designates August 26th as the fourth anniversary of the Abbey Gate attack in Kabul.

The proclamation honors the 13 fallen US service members, criticizes the previous administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, and highlights the apprehension of the ISIS-K perpetrator responsible for the attack.

It emphasizes reaffirming national strength and resolve in foreign policy.

Taking Steps to End Cashless Bail to Protect Americans

Published: Mon 25th Aug 25

This presidential order directs federal agencies to review and potentially cut funding to jurisdictions with cashless bail policies deemed to threaten public safety.

The Attorney General will identify these jurisdictions, focusing on those with a high rate of releases for violent crimes or offenses involving property damage, before federal funds are reviewed.

The order aims to prioritize incarcerating individuals considered high risks to society, emphasizing the need to maintain order and public safety.

Measures To End Cashless Bail And Enforce The Law In The District Of Columbia

Published: Mon 25th Aug 25

This Presidential Action addresses a declared crime emergency in Washington, D.C. It directs Federal agencies to take steps to ensure that dangerous individuals are held in pretrial detention by prioritizing Federal custody and charges, and by influencing the District's policies on cashless bail through funding decisions, services, and reviews.

The Attorney General is tasked with reviewing D.C. Metropolitan Police Department policies and working to change cashless bail procedures.

The order emphasizes the need to enhance public safety while asserting the President's constitutional authority.

Prosecuting Burning of The American Flag

This presidential order prioritizes the prosecution of American flag desecration, particularly acts that incite violence or violate existing laws.

It instructs the Attorney General to vigorously enforce laws against such actions while being mindful of First Amendment rights, and directs other agencies to take appropriate action, including immigration-related measures for foreign nationals.

The order does not affect existing agency authority or create new legal rights.

Additional Measures to Address the Crime Emergency in the District of Columbia

President Trump issued an order outlining further actions to combat the crime emergency in Washington, D.C., following a previous declaration.

The order directs several federal agencies to increase law enforcement presence and resources, including hiring additional police and prosecutors, establishing specialized units within the National Guard and other federal agencies, conducting investigations into housing compliance, and reviewing Metropolitan Police Department General Orders.

The order emphasizes public safety and order in D.C. and preparedness to address similar situations in other cities.

Improving Our Nation Through Better Design

Published: Thu 21st Aug 25

President Trump signed an executive order establishing "America by Design," a national initiative to significantly improve the design and usability of federal services.

This initiative creates a National Design Studio within the White House, headed by a new Chief Design Officer.

The initiative aims to modernize the visual presentation and user experience of both digital and physical government services, resulting in cost savings, improved public trust and increased efficiency for citizens interacting with their government.

Agencies will provide initial results by July 4, 2026.

Presidential Permit: Authorizing Cameron County, Texas, to Construct, Maintain, and Operate a Pedestrian Border Crossing at the Gateway International Bridge Land Port of Entry

President Donald J. Trump granted Cameron County, Texas permission to construct, maintain, and operate a pedestrian crossing at the Gateway International Bridge land port of entry.

The permit, issued on August 20, 2025, is subject to fourteen conditions outlined in the document.

These conditions cover areas such as environmental impact mitigation, adherence to federal and local regulations, coordination with relevant federal agencies, and notification requirements for various stages of the project.

The President retains the right to terminate or amend the permit at any time and the permit will expire if construction hasn't started within five years of the issuance date.

The permit explicitly states it does not create any legally enforceable rights against the United States.

90th Anniversary of the Social Security Act

Published: Thu 14th Aug 25

President Donald J. Trump's proclamation declares August 14, 2025, the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act.

The proclamation praises the Act's enduring importance, highlights the administration's efforts to combat fraud and improve the Social Security Administration's efficiency, and celebrates the significant tax relief provided to seniors.

Trump also connects strong border security policies to the preservation of Social Security benefits.

Revocation of Executive Order on Competition

Published: Wed 13th Aug 25

President Donald J. Trump issued an order revoking Executive Order 14036, which promoted competition in the American economy.

The revocation includes general provisions specifying that the order does not diminish the authority of executive departments or agencies, must adhere to existing law and funding, and creates no legally enforceable rights.

The publication costs are assigned to the Department of Justice.

Enabling Competition in the Commercial Space Industry

President Trump issued an executive order aimed at enhancing U.S. dominance in the commercial space industry by 2030.

The order directs several federal agencies to streamline regulations and expedite approvals for commercial space launches, spaceport infrastructure development, and novel space activities.

Key actions include reevaluating and amending existing regulations, facilitating inter-agency coordination, and establishing new positions within relevant government agencies to oversee commercial space activities.

The order emphasizes increasing launch cadence and innovation while balancing national security concerns and environmental considerations.

Ensuring American Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Resilience by Filling the Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve

President Trump's August 13, 2025 order addresses the vulnerability of the US pharmaceutical supply chain by directing the immediate replenishment of the Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve (SAPIR).

The order prioritizes securing a six-month supply of APIs for 26 critical drugs, with a preference for domestically sourced materials.

It also mandates planning for a second SAPIR repository and an updated list of essential medicines to ensure long-term resilience.

Funding will be sourced from existing government resources, subject to budgetary limitations.

Further Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Ongoing Discussions with The People’s Republic of China

Published: Tue 12th Aug 25

President Trump issued an order further extending the suspension of additional tariffs on certain Chinese imports until November 10, 2025.

This action is based on ongoing trade discussions with the PRC and their progress toward addressing U.S. concerns about trade reciprocity and national security.

The order directs relevant government agencies to implement the tariff suspension and emphasizes that it doesn't create any legally enforceable rights.

Restoring Law and Order in the District of Columbia

President Trump issued a memorandum ordering the mobilization of the District of Columbia National Guard to address a perceived increase in violent crime in Washington, D.C. The memorandum cites specific instances of violent crime, including murders and assaults near the White House and other government buildings, as justification for the action.

The President directs the Secretary of Defense to mobilize the Guard and coordinate with state governors to deploy additional National Guard personnel, if required.

The memorandum states that the National Guard’s deployment will continue until law and order are restored.

Declaring a Crime Emergency in the District of Columbia

Published: Mon 11th Aug 25

President Trump declared a crime emergency in Washington, D.C., citing alarmingly high rates of violent crime that endanger public servants, residents, and tourists and disrupt federal government operations.

The order authorizes the federal government to utilize the Metropolitan Police Department for federal purposes, under the Attorney General's oversight, to address this emergency.

The order also mandates regular updates to the president on the situation's status and any need for further action.

Democratizing Access to Alternative Assets for 401(K) Investors

This presidential order seeks to broaden investment opportunities for 401(k) and similar retirement plan participants by increasing access to alternative assets.

The order addresses concerns about the lack of access to these investment types for the majority of Americans, despite their availability for institutional investors and the wealthy.

It directs the Secretary of Labor to review existing department guidelines and propose changes that promote prudent investment in alternative assets while mitigating legal risks.

The Securities and Exchange Commission is also tasked with evaluating potential regulatory adjustments to facilitate access.

Guaranteeing Fair Banking For All Americans

President Trump issued an executive order addressing what the order terms "politicized or unlawful debanking." The order alleges that financial institutions have engaged in discriminatory practices by restricting access to financial services based on political beliefs, religious affiliations, or lawful business activities.

It directs federal banking regulators to remove reputation risk considerations from their guidance and investigate institutions engaging in such practices.

The Small Business Administration is instructed to assist clients who were unfairly denied services.

The order aims to ensure fair access to financial services for all Americans, regardless of their political affiliations or beliefs, and to prevent the use of financial tools to suppress differing viewpoints.

Ensuring Transparency in Higher Education Admissions

Published: Thu 7th Aug 25

This presidential memorandum addresses concerns about transparency in higher education admissions.

It directs the Secretary of Education to improve the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) by upgrading its online presentation, streamlining data collection, expanding reporting requirements to encompass admissions processes, and implementing stricter accuracy checks.

The memorandum aims to enhance transparency, ensure the fairness of admissions practices, and address the use of racial proxies in admissions processes, ultimately promoting confidence in the integrity of higher education institutions.

Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking

President Trump issued an executive order to improve oversight of federal grantmaking.

The order addresses concerns about misuse of taxpayer money by focusing on alignment of grants with national interests and improved agency accountability.

Specific actions include implementing rigorous review processes for funding opportunity announcements and discretionary grants, revising the Uniform Guidance to streamline application requirements and limit administrative costs, and providing for termination of grants not aligned with national interests.

This aims to prevent the funding of projects that promote certain ideologies, compromise public safety or waste taxpayer resources.

Addressing Threats to The United States by the Government of the Russian Federation

This presidential order addresses the ongoing national security threat from Russia's actions in Ukraine by imposing a 25 percent ad valorem duty on imports from India due to its indirect involvement in importing Russian oil.

The order cites evidence of Russia's continued harmful activities and establishes a framework for monitoring, amending these tariffs based on further information, including the potential for modification should India or Russia take mitigating steps.

Several cabinet members are given key roles for implementation and enforcement.

Establishing the White House Task Force on the 2028 Summer Olympics

President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order establishing the White House Task Force on the 2028 Summer Olympics.

The Task Force, chaired by the President and vice-chaired by the Vice President, will coordinate federal efforts to ensure the safety and security of the Games, including managing transportation, entry/exit processes, visa processing, and interagency cooperation with state and local partners.

The order outlines the task force's functions, membership, reporting structure and termination date, emphasizing a collaborative federal approach to support the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Amendment to Duties to Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border

President Trump issued an executive order increasing tariffs on certain Canadian products from 25% to 35%.

This action, justified by Canada's perceived inaction on combating the flow of illicit drugs across their shared border and its retaliatory measures, aims to pressure the Canadian government into enhanced cooperation.

The order also introduces additional penalties for transshipment to circumvent the tariffs, mandates ongoing monitoring of the situation, and outlines provisions for further action if needed.

Nominations Sent to the Senate

Published: Fri 1st Aug 25

The White House announced the nomination of Edward Forst of Florida to serve as the Administrator of General Services, replacing Robin Carnahan who resigned.

This nomination is subject to Senate confirmation and represents a key appointment to oversee a critical government agency.

Further Modifying the Reciprocal Tariff Rates

President Donald J. Trump issued an order further modifying reciprocal tariff rates, adjusting duties on goods from various countries and territories.

The action builds upon Executive Order 14257, addressing the national security and economic threats stemming from large and persistent U.S. goods trade deficits.

The order modifies the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States(HTSUS), with adjustments based on progress in trade negotiations and security agreements with certain partners.

Specific tariff rates are provided in Annex I, with Annex II detailing further HTSUS modifications.

The order tasks multiple agencies with implementation, establishes penalties for transshipment to evade duties, and includes monitoring mechanisms to review the effectiveness of these actions and inform future presidential decisions.