Directives Published September 2025
Presidential directives and executive orders issued by the White House in September 2025.
Summary
- 30th Sep 25 * Directed federal agencies to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate research, diagnostics, and treatment for pediatric cancer, focusing specifically on enhancing the capabilities of the Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI). View
- 30th Sep 25 * The President proclaimed tariffs on imported timber, lumber, and derivative products based on a national security finding under Section 232, setting initial rates of 10% and 25% with scheduled increases. View
- 30th Sep 25 The President ordered the continuance of fifty-two specific Federal Advisory Committees until September 30, 2027, superseding previous orders and delegating management functions under the Federal Advisory Committee Act to agency heads. View
- 29th Sep 25 * The United States established a formal policy to guarantee the security of the State of Qatar against external aggression, requiring joint defense planning and commitment to diplomatic, economic, or military response measures. View
- 25th Sep 25 * The Attorney General and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia were directed to fully enforce federal death penalty laws in D.C. for all appropriate, heinous crimes. View
- 25th Sep 25 * Issued NSPM-7 directing a national strategy led by the JTTFs to investigate and disrupt organized domestic terrorism, politically motivated violence, and associated conspiracy networks utilizing enhanced prosecutorial and financial disruption tools. View
- 25th Sep 25 The President proclaimed Sunday, September 28, 2025, as Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day, calling for the display of the U.S. flag to honor families of fallen service members. View
- 25th Sep 25 The President determined a proposed divestiture framework for TikTok's U.S. operations was a qualified divestiture, directed a 120-day enforcement delay for its completion, and amended prior orders related to ByteDance. View
- 22nd Sep 25 The president designated Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization and instructed relevant agencies to investigate and dismantle its operations. View
- 22nd Sep 25 A presidential proclamation designated September 15 through October 15, 2025, as National Hispanic Heritage Month. View
- 19th Sep 25 The president restricted entry for certain H-1B nonimmigrant workers, imposed a $100,000 fee on petitions, and initiated rulemakings to revise prevailing wage levels and prioritize high-skilled workers. View
- 19th Sep 25 President Trump proclaimed September 19, 2025, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring American POWs and MIAs and reaffirming the commitment to account for those still missing. View
- 19th Sep 25 The President established the Gold Card immigration program, requiring significant financial contributions in exchange for expedited immigrant visas. View
- 18th Sep 25 President Trump proclaimed Constitution Week 2025, emphasizing civic education and the importance of upholding the US Constitution. View
- 18th Sep 25 The US and UK governments established a collaborative framework to advance AI, civil nuclear energy, and quantum technologies, and to strengthen research security and international standards. View
- 16th Sep 25 An emergency board was established to investigate and report on labor disputes between the Long Island Rail Road and its employees, maintaining the existing conditions for 120 days. View
- 16th Sep 25 The President extended the TikTok enforcement delay until December 16, 2025, instructed the Department of Justice to refrain from enforcement during this period, and asserted exclusive federal authority over enforcement. View
- 15th Sep 25 The President sent nine nominations to the Senate for US Attorney and District/Circuit Judge positions. View
- 15th Sep 25 A Memphis Safe Task Force was established and the National Guard was mobilized to address high violent crime rates in Memphis. View
- 11th Sep 25 The President proclaimed September 11, 2025, as Patriot Day, honoring victims of the 9/11 attacks and directing the display of the U.S. flag at half-staff. View
- 10th Sep 25 A presidential proclamation was issued ordering flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Charlie Kirk. View
- 9th Sep 25 The President directed the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to increase transparency and accuracy in direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising and to enforce existing regulations. View
- 6th Sep 25 The President issued an executive order changing the Department of Defense's name to the Department of War and altering associated titles. View
- 6th Sep 25 The President modified reciprocal tariffs, updated the HTSUS, and established procedures for implementing framework and final trade agreements to address national security threats and large and persistent U.S. goods trade deficits. View
- 5th Sep 25 The president issued an executive order designating foreign countries supporting wrongful detention of U.S. nationals, implementing sanctions and other measures to protect U.S. citizens. View
- 4th Sep 25 The President issued an order implementing the US-Japan agreement, establishing tariffs, modifying existing trade actions, and facilitating substantial Japanese investments in American industries. View
- 4th Sep 25 The President sent numerous nominations to the Senate for various government positions, and also withdrew several previous nominations. View
- 2nd Sep 25 The President sent nominations for multiple ambassadorships, a Federal Reserve governorship, and numerous federal judgeships to the Senate. View
Unlocking Cures for Pediatric Cancer with Artificial Intelligence
This Presidential Action mandates the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive innovation in preventing and treating pediatric cancer, recognizing it as a top priority for the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission.
The order directs relevant agencies to harness AI to accelerate scientific progress within the existing Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI) by improving data infrastructure, enhancing complex biologic data analysis, and optimizing clinical trial design and access.
Furthermore, it instructs coordination to increase federal investment in pediatric cancer research and encourage private sector adoption of advanced AI technologies, all while ensuring patient privacy safeguards are maintained during data sharing efforts.
This Presidential Proclamation establishes that imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products threaten U.S. national security, based on a Section 232 investigation finding that high import volumes weaken the domestic industry, disrupt critical supply chains, and diminish capacity vital to national defense and critical infrastructure.
Consequently, the President imposes specific ad valorem tariffs on softwood timber, lumber (10%), and upholstered wooden products, kitchen cabinets, and vanities (25%), effective October 14, 2025, with subsequent increases slated for January 1, 2026, unless trade agreements are reached with affected foreign partners, including coordinating with the UK, EU, and Japan under established negotiated frameworks.
Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees
- Foreign Policy
- Healthcare
- Finance
- Defense
- Immigration
- Environment
- Labor
- Homeland
- Education
- Science
- Trade
- Justice
- Veterans
- Agriculture
This Presidential Action order continues the existence of fifty-two specific Federal Advisory Committees, including those related to the White House, national security, public health, trade, natural monuments, and historical preservation, until September 30, 2027.
The action supersedes sections of a prior Executive Order (EO 14109) and delegates the President's authorities under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) concerning these committees to the heads of their designated departments or agencies.
Assuring the Security of the State of Qatar
This Presidential Action establishes the official policy of the United States to guarantee the security and territorial integrity of the State of Qatar against external attack, recognizing Qatar's history as a steadfast ally hosting U.S. forces and acting as a regional mediator.
The order mandates that any armed attack on Qatar will be viewed as a threat to U.S. peace and security, requiring the U.S. to take all lawful measures including diplomatic, economic, and potentially military action to defend both nations' interests.
Furthermore, it directs the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of State, and the Director of National Intelligence to develop joint contingency plans and requires the Secretary of State to reaffirm this commitment internationally.
This Presidential Memorandum directs the Attorney General and the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia to fully enforce all applicable Federal laws concerning capital punishment within the District of Columbia, specifically mandating the pursuit of the death penalty in all cases where the evidence and relevant factors justify a sentence of death for especially aggravated crimes.
The action frames this enforcement as a continuation of efforts to enhance public safety following the declaration of a crime emergency in the nation's capital.
National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-7) establishes a comprehensive national strategy, coordinated by the National Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTFs), to investigate, prosecute, and disrupt domestic networks and entities promoting political violence, intimidation, and organized conspiracy against the rule of law.
The directive mandates federal agencies to focus on criminal conspiracies starting from recruitment and radicalization, extending to funding sources, and requires the Attorney General to prioritize prosecution of acts like organized doxing, rioting, and assault against federal employees, while the Treasury Department is tasked with disrupting financial networks supporting this violence.
This Presidential Proclamation, issued by Donald J. Trump, officially designates Sunday, September 28, 2025, as Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day.
The President honors the supreme sacrifice made by service members who died defending the nation's ideals and expresses gratitude and unwavering support to their bereaved families.
The action calls upon government officials and the American people to display the U.S. flag and hold appropriate ceremonies to express national gratitude and respect.
Saving TikTok While Protecting National Security
This Presidential Action determines that a proposed framework agreement for the divestiture of TikTok's United States operations constitutes a "qualified divestiture" under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, thereby resolving national security concerns related to foreign adversary control over the application and its user data.
The order grants the Attorney General a 120-day delay on enforcing the Act to allow this structured separation—where a new U.S.-based joint venture with less than 20% ownership by ByteDance would take control—to be finalized, while also revoking a previous related delegation order and amending the 2020 Divestment Order.
Designating Antifa as a Domestic Terrorist Organization
President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
The order cites Antifa's alleged pattern of violence, including armed standoffs with law enforcement, riots, assaults on officers, and obstruction of federal laws.
It directs relevant agencies to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle Antifa's operations and prosecute those involved, while claiming the order is consistent with applicable law and doesn't create new legal recourse.
National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates September 15 to October 15, 2025, as National Hispanic Heritage Month.
It acknowledges the considerable contributions of Hispanic Americans to the nation's military, law enforcement, public service and overall culture, emphasizing their resilience, spirit and commitment to American values.
The proclamation encourages all Americans to observe this month with activities and programs that celebrate the achievements of Hispanic Americans; it's authorized annually by Public Law 100-402.
Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers
This presidential proclamation restricts the entry of certain H-1B nonimmigrant workers into the United States.
The action addresses concerns about the program's abuse, where it's alleged that companies replace American workers with lower-paid foreign labor.
This is presented as causing harm to American workers' wages and employment prospects and threatening national security.
The proclamation imposes a $100,000 fee on H-1B petitions, with exceptions for cases deemed in the national interest.
Further, it initiates rulemakings to revise prevailing wage levels and prioritize high-skilled, high-paid workers.
National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates September 19, 2025, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.
The proclamation honors the service and sacrifice of American prisoners of war and those missing in action, expressing unwavering commitment to bringing home every missing service member.
It highlights past efforts to repatriate remains, particularly focusing on those from the Korean War and emphasizing continued efforts toward full accounting for those lost during past conflicts.
The President calls upon various government entities and private organizations to mark this day with appropriate ceremonies.
The Gold Card
President Trump signed an executive order establishing the "Gold Card" program, a new immigration initiative. This program allows individuals or corporations to sponsor an immigrant visa for a beneficiary in exchange for a large financial contribution to the Department of Commerce.
The funds will be used to support commerce and American industry.
The order emphasizes reversing previous immigration policies deemed detrimental to national interests and aims to attract wealthy individuals who can benefit the U.S. financially.
Constitution Week, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's 2025 proclamation designates September 17th through 23rd as Constitution Week, urging a renewed commitment to American citizenship and constitutional principles.
The proclamation emphasizes the importance of civic duty, the sanctity of the Constitution, and the need to defend national heritage against perceived threats.
It cites the historical significance of the Constitution and underscores the responsibilities inherent in American citizenship, including upholding the rule of law and preserving national values.
Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of The United States of America and the Government of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Regarding the Technology Prosperity Deal
The US and UK governments signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance cooperation on strategic science and technology.
The MOU focuses on accelerating AI innovation, unleashing civil nuclear energy, securing quantum advantage, and establishing foundations for frontier innovation.
It envisions joint research programs, streamlined regulatory processes, and the establishment of a ministerial-level working group to monitor progress and guide future collaborations.
The agreement emphasizes the importance of shared values and coordinated policy approaches to achieve common objectives.
President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order establishing an emergency board to investigate unresolved labor disputes between the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and several labor unions.
The order, based on the Railway Labor Act, mandates a 30-day investigation, with a 120-day freeze on any changes to the conditions of the dispute.
This action aims to prevent potential service disruptions due to labor unrest.
Further Extending the TikTok Enforcement Delay
President Trump issued an executive order further extending the enforcement deadline of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, specifically targeting TikTok, until December 16, 2025.
The order directs the Department of Justice to refrain from enforcing the Act during this period and to issue guidance clarifying that no penalties will be pursued for past conduct.
It also asserts the federal government's exclusive authority for enforcement, preventing actions by states or private parties at this time.
Nominations Sent to the Senate
President Biden submitted nine nominations to the Senate for confirmation.
These nominations include four individuals for United States Attorney positions in North Carolina, New Hampshire, and Louisiana, as well as five individuals for United States District Judge positions across North Carolina and one individual for United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.
The nominations represent a significant step in filling key roles within the federal justice system.
The Presidential Memorandum addresses the high violent crime rate in Memphis, Tennessee, by establishing the Memphis Safe Task Force, composed of multiple federal agencies, to coordinate with state and local officials to reduce crime and restore public order.
The memorandum additionally authorizes the mobilization of Tennessee National Guard units to support law enforcement operations, utilizing strategies from prior executive orders targeting crime in the District of Columbia.
Patriot Day 2025, The 24th Anniversary of the September 11 Terrorist Attacks
President Trump's 2025 Patriot Day proclamation commemorates the 24th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
It recounts the events of that day, honoring the victims and the bravery of first responders.
The proclamation reaffirms a commitment to national security and calls upon Americans to remember the sacrifices made and the continuing need for national unity.
It designates September 11th as Patriot Day and directs the display of the U.S. flag at half-staff.
Honoring the Memory of Charlie Kirk
President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation ordering that flags be flown at half-staff at all public buildings and grounds, military posts and naval stations, and on all federal vessels in the United States and its territories, until sunset on September 14, 2025, to honor the memory of Charlie Kirk.
The directive also included all U.S. embassies, legations, and other facilities abroad.
Memorandum for the Secretary of Health and Human Services the Commissioner of Food and Drugs
This presidential memorandum addresses concerns about misleading direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertisements.
The memorandum directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to enhance transparency and accuracy in such advertising by increasing the amount of risk information provided and by rigorously enforcing existing regulations.
The goal is to ensure that consumers receive fair, balanced, and complete information to make informed healthcare decisions.
Restoring the United States Department of War
President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order on September 5, 2025, renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War, and changing the Secretary of Defense's title to Secretary of War.
The order cites the historical significance of the name and its projection of national strength.
While the order outlines steps for implementation and future legislative action for a permanent name change, this symbolic shift also presents potential challenges in legal documents, diplomacy, and public perception.
Modifying The Scope of Reciprocal Tariffs and Establishing Procedures for Implementing Trade and Security Agreements
This Presidential Action modifies existing reciprocal tariffs and outlines procedures for implementing future trade and security agreements.
It updates Annex II of Executive Order 14257 to adjust import duties, citing concerns about large and persistent U.S. goods trade deficits as a threat to national security.
The action also details how the government will manage tariff modifications resulting from framework and final agreements with trading partners, emphasizing a balance between national interests and the need to address the economic and national security challenges posed by trade imbalances.
The Commerce and Trade Representative departments are given implementation authority.
Strengthening Efforts to Protect U.S. Nationals from Wrongful Detention Abroad
This executive order aims to strengthen efforts to protect U.S. nationals from wrongful detention abroad.
It empowers the Secretary of State to designate foreign countries as 'State Sponsors of Wrongful Detention' based on specific criteria, triggering responses including sanctions, travel restrictions, and limitations on assistance and exports.
The order clarifies definitions, addresses other detaining entities, and includes provisions for the termination of designations.
Implementing The United States–Japan Agreement
This Presidential order implements a framework agreement with Japan, aiming to create a more balanced and reciprocal trade relationship.
It establishes a 15% baseline tariff on most Japanese imports, but provides exceptions for certain goods like generic pharmaceuticals and natural resources unavailable in the US. Japan, in return, commits to significantly increased purchases of US agricultural products and a substantial $550 billion investment in the American economy, targeted by the US Government.
The order also modifies or eliminates previous tariffs on aerospace products and automobiles in light of the new agreement, with specific agencies tasked to oversee the implementation and monitor progress.
This aims to enhance national security and increase economic growth.
The President submitted a series of nominations to the Senate for various key positions within the executive branch.
These nominations include individuals for roles in agencies such as Labor, Commerce, Treasury, Transportation, and the Central Intelligence Agency, among others.
Additionally, several previous nominations were noted with withdrawal notices having been sent to the Senate earlier in 2025.
Nominations Sent to the Senate
President Biden sent to the Senate a slate of nominations for various key positions.
These include nominations for ambassadors to Bangladesh, India, Bahrain, Jordan, and Iceland; a Federal Reserve Board member; and several federal judgeships in Mississippi, Alabama, and the District of Columbia.
The nominations span diverse fields and require Senate confirmation.