Technology Directives

Updating Permitting Technology for the 21st Century

This Presidential memorandum addresses inefficiencies in the environmental permitting process for infrastructure projects.

It mandates the modernization of technology used for environmental review and permitting, setting deadlines for the creation of a comprehensive action plan, a dedicated innovation center, and the adoption of new data and technology standards across involved agencies.

The goal is to accelerate project approval times while maintaining review quality and transparency.

Clarification of Exceptions Under Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as Amended

President Trump issued a memorandum clarifying exceptions under Executive Order 14257, concerning tariffs imposed to rectify trade deficits.

The memorandum specifically defines 'semiconductors' under the order, listing the relevant Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) headings and subheadings, to ensure that this critical industry is not affected by the tariffs.

The memorandum further mandates the modification of the HTSUS to reflect these exceptions and directs the refund of any duties already collected on these exempted items.

Finally, the memorandum reiterates the authorization given to appropriate agencies to utilize necessary powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to ensure the proper execution of the executive order.

Addressing Risks from Chris Krebs and Government Censorship

This presidential memorandum directs the immediate revocation of Christopher Krebs's security clearance and initiates a comprehensive review of both his activities and those of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under his leadership.

The actions are justified by allegations that Krebs abused his authority to suppress free speech, engaging in censorship and distorting public opinion concerning the 2020 election and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The review will evaluate Krebs’ conduct for any violations of federal suitability standards and unauthorized dissemination of classified information, ultimately leading to a report with recommendations for remedial actions.

Modernizing Defense Acquisitions and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base

The Presidential order mandates a comprehensive overhaul of the United States' defense acquisition system to accelerate procurement and revitalize the defense industrial base.

The order directs the Secretary of Defense to develop plans within specific timelines to expedite acquisitions, reform acquisition processes, modernize the defense acquisition workforce, and conduct a thorough review of major defense acquisition programs.

This includes reviewing acquisition workforce metrics, streamlining relevant regulations, and establishing field training teams to improve the use of innovative acquisition authorities.

The ultimate objective is to ensure the U.S. military possesses state-of-the-art warfighting capabilities.

Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting to Unleash American Energy

This presidential order mandates a review of energy-related regulations within specific federal agencies.

The order aims to streamline the regulatory process by instituting 'sunset' provisions, requiring periodic review and potential removal of existing regulations.

This initiative seeks to stimulate innovation and economic growth within the energy sector by reducing regulatory burdens deemed excessive or outdated, ultimately promoting what the order characterizes as needed economic progress.

Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241

This executive order prioritizes the revitalization of the American coal industry, emphasizing its role in national security and economic prosperity.

It directs federal agencies to remove regulatory obstacles to coal production, increase domestic coal use, and promote coal exports.

The order also seeks to incorporate coal more broadly into other sectors, such as powering artificial intelligence data centers and supplying the steel industry.

Multiple agencies are tasked with implementing these changes.

Strengthening the Reliability and Security of the United States Electric Grid

This executive order addresses the strain on the US electric grid caused by increased energy demand.

It aims to strengthen grid reliability, resilience, and security.

Key actions include streamlining processes for issuing orders under the Federal Power Act, developing a standardized methodology for analyzing reserve margins, and establishing protocols to retain critical generation resources.

The order emphasizes utilizing all available power generation resources to meet growing demand and prevent grid failure.

Extending the TikTok Enforcement Delay

This Presidential Action extends the enforcement delay of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, specifically targeting TikTok, until June 19, 2025.

The Department of Justice is instructed to take no enforcement action during this period and to issue guidance clarifying that no violations occurred during the delay.

The order emphasizes the Attorney General's exclusive authority to enforce the Act, preventing state or private actions.

Furthermore, it clarifies that the order does not create any new legal rights.