Economy Directives
Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Autombile Parts Into the United States
President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation in March 2025 imposing a 25% tariff on imported automobiles and certain auto parts.
The action, justified under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, aims to address national security concerns stemming from vulnerabilities in domestic automotive supply chains and perceived unfair trade practices by foreign competitors.
The proclamation cites the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption of supply chains, the decline in domestic automobile manufacturing, and the rise of foreign automotive industries supported by subsidies and aggressive industrial policies.
While the proclamation offers provisions for USMCA-qualifying vehicles and for a process to modify the tariffs, it represents a significant intervention in the automotive market, with potential economic and geopolitical implications.
Protecting America’s Bank Account Against Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
This executive order addresses the significant financial fraud and improper payments within the Federal Government, aiming to protect taxpayer funds and enhance transparency.
The order directs the Department of the Treasury to implement stricter payment verification procedures, consolidate core financial systems across agencies, and reduce the number of Non-Treasury Disbursing Offices (NTDOs).
Detailed steps are outlined for agencies to comply, including submitting compliance plans and transitioning to Treasury-managed disbursing systems.
Progress reports are required to ensure implementation.
Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account
The Presidential order mandates a significant shift towards electronic payments for all federal disbursements and receipts by September 30, 2025.
This action aims to reduce costs, improve efficiency, enhance security, and combat fraud associated with paper-based systems, such as checks and money orders.
While recognizing the need for accommodations for those lacking electronic access, the order establishes a clear policy for modernizing government finances and sets specific timelines and responsibilities for its implementation.
IMPOSING TARIFFS ON COUNTRIES IMPORTING VENEZUELAN OIL
President Trump issued an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on goods imported from any country importing Venezuelan oil, effective April 2, 2025.
The order cites the ongoing national emergency related to Venezuela and the destabilizing activities of the Maduro regime and the Tren de Aragua gang as justification.
The Secretary of State, in consultation with other relevant Secretaries, will determine which countries will be subject to the tariff, which will expire one year after the country's last import of Venezuelan oil.
The order also includes provisions for administration, enforcement, and periodic reporting on its effectiveness.
GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY: A NATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION OF GREEK AND AMERICAN DEMOCRACY, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy.
The proclamation commemorates the 204th anniversary of Greece's independence from the Ottoman Empire, emphasizing the enduring historical ties and shared democratic ideals between the two nations.
It highlights the ongoing strategic partnership between the US and Greece, particularly in defense and economic collaboration, and celebrates the rich contributions of Greek Americans to American society.
Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos
This executive order directs federal agencies to eliminate barriers to data access and promote information sharing to combat waste, fraud, and abuse.
It mandates that agency heads take steps to ensure designated officials have access to unclassified agency records and data, rescind guidance hindering information sharing, and provide unfettered access to data from federally funded state programs.
The order also calls for a review of classified information policies and includes provisions for implementing the order consistent with existing laws and budget limitations.
Eliminating Waste and Saving Taxpayer Dollars by Consolidating Procurement
This executive order directs the consolidation of domestic federal procurement of common goods and services under the General Services Administration (GSA).
The order cites the GSA's original mandate for efficient procurement and the significant annual spending on federal contracts as justification.
The order sets deadlines for agencies to submit proposals to the GSA, for the GSA to create a comprehensive plan, and for the OMB to designate the GSA Administrator as the executive agent for government-wide IT acquisition contracts.
The aim is to eliminate waste and duplication, improving efficiency and saving taxpayer dollars.
Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production
President Trump issued an executive order to significantly increase American mineral production.
The order aims to bolster national and economic security by reducing dependence on foreign mineral sources.
It directs various federal agencies to expedite permitting for mineral production projects, prioritize mineral extraction on federal lands, and leverage public and private funding to support domestic mineral companies.
The order addresses regulatory streamlining, waste disposal, and encouraging capital investment, clarifying the treatment of mine waste under the Mining Act of 1872.