Category: News

News articles

  • Addressing Risks from Susman Godfrey

    Addressing Risks from Susman Godfrey

    On April 9, 2025, the White House released an article outlining an executive order aimed at addressing serious concerns related to Susman Godfrey LLP. The order claims that the firm engages in practices that threaten important American interests and national security, including alleged discrimination and efforts to politicize military effectiveness. To address these risks, the government will review security clearances held by individuals at the firm and will seek to terminate contracts that could involve federal funding directed towards Susman.

    The executive order outlines several key actions, including the suspension of active security clearances and the cessation of government services provided to Susman. It requires that government contractors disclose their business dealings with the firm to ensure that taxpayer dollars do not inadvertently support activities inconsistent with American values. Additionally, agency heads are instructed to limit access to federal facilities for Susman employees to protect national interests.

    The order emphasizes a commitment to ending unlawful discrimination, particularly practices that favor certain groups over others in a manner considered discriminatory. It reinforces the administration’s position against funding entities that engage in activities contrary to the principles of equality and fairness. Overall, the article reflects a significant step by the administration to align federal engagements with national security priorities and ethical standards.

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  • Modernizing Defense Acquisitions and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base

    Modernizing Defense Acquisitions and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base

    The article describes a directive from the President aimed at modernizing the defense acquisition system to improve the capabilities of the U.S. military. This initiative focuses on speeding up defense procurement processes and revitalizing the defense industrial base, highlighting the need for speed, flexibility, and effective execution.

    Key elements of the plan include a thorough review of existing acquisition processes, reforms to the defense acquisition workforce, and a strategy to assess major defense acquisition programs for alignment with updated policy objectives.

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  • Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting to Unleash American Energy

    Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting to Unleash American Energy

    The article announces an executive order from the President aimed at reforming the regulatory framework governing energy production in the United States. The order emphasizes the necessity for a more streamlined approach to regulatory oversight, arguing that the current system is overly complex and burdensome, with federal regulations spanning nearly 200,000 pages. To address these issues, the order mandates that certain agencies implement sunset provisions on regulations, requiring regular reviews to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.

    Specifically, the order applies to several key agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DoE), among others. It directs these agencies to establish a Conditional Sunset Date for existing regulations, which will automatically expire unless extended after public review. This approach aims to encourage innovation in energy production and reduce the burdens that outdated regulations impose on industry.

    The order also includes provisions for public input regarding the effectiveness of regulations, aiming to foster a more transparent regulatory environment. While the implementation of these changes is set to occur over the coming years, the order specifies that it will not apply to regulatory permitting regimes authorized by law. Overall, this initiative reflects a broader goal of enhancing energy production capabilities while ensuring that regulations remain beneficial and relevant.

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  • Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

    Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

    On April 9, 2025, the White House issued an order to reform foreign defense sales regulations to enhance market competition and accountability. The directive emphasizes the need to identify and eliminate anti-competitive regulations that create barriers for new market entrants and limit competition among existing entities. Agency heads are tasked with reviewing current regulations and providing recommendations for modifications or rescissions based on their impact on competition.

    The order requires agency heads to complete a review of regulations within a specified timeframe, prioritizing those deemed significant under Executive Order 12866. A request for information will also be issued to solicit public input on identifying regulations that could be considered anti-competitive. This collaborative approach aims to gather insights from various stakeholders to inform the decision-making process regarding regulatory changes.

    Ultimately, the goal of this order is to revitalize the economy by fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation in the defense sector. By streamlining regulations and promoting fair competition, the administration seeks to ensure that American consumers and businesses benefit from a more dynamic marketplace.

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  • Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

    Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

    On April 9, 2025, the White House released an article detailing new reforms aimed at enhancing the foreign defense sales system. These reforms are designed to improve accountability and transparency, streamline decision-making processes, and reduce regulatory burdens. The administration aims to bolster the U.S. defense industrial base and strengthen partnerships with foreign allies by fostering collaboration between government and industry.

    The article outlines specific policies to achieve these goals, including consolidating decision-making concerning military capabilities for partner nations and increasing flexibility in contracts. It also emphasizes the importance of integrating exportability features early in the defense acquisition process, which will help maintain U.S. technological advantages while improving competitiveness abroad. Additionally, the plan includes a phased implementation process that involves developing lists of priority partners and military end-items, as well as establishing metrics for accountability in defense sales.

    Overall, these reforms reflect the administration’s commitment to ensuring that the U.S. remains a leader in global defense cooperation while simultaneously revitalizing its defense industry. The proposed changes aim to create a more efficient and effective foreign defense sales system, ultimately benefiting both the United States and its international partners.

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  • Reducing Anti-Competitive Regulatory Barriers

    Reducing Anti-Competitive Regulatory Barriers

    In a recent directive, the President emphasized the need to reduce federal regulations that create obstacles for new market entrants and limit competition. The order outlines a systematic approach in which agency heads will review regulations under their jurisdiction to identify those that facilitate monopolistic practices or impose unfair barriers to entry for businesses. This initiative aims to enhance economic revitalization by promoting a more competitive landscape, ultimately benefiting American consumers through increased choices and innovation.

    The order mandates that within 70 days, agency heads must submit a list of anti-competitive regulations along with recommendations for either rescission or modification. Additionally, feedback from the public will be solicited through a request for information, allowing for broader input on which regulations are perceived as detrimental to competition. This collaborative approach seeks to ensure that the regulatory environment fosters entrepreneurship while safeguarding fair market practices.

    Furthermore, the directive explains that the Office of Management and Budget will play a role in consolidating the findings from various agencies and deciding on the proposed changes to the regulatory agenda. The goal of this effort is to create a regulatory framework that encourages competition and innovation, which are essential for a thriving economy. By streamlining regulations, the administration hopes to remove unnecessary barriers that have historically limited market entry and growth.

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  • Directing the Repeal of Unlawful Regulations

    Directing the Repeal of Unlawful Regulations

    On April 9, 2025, the White House issued a memorandum aimed at promoting economic growth by directing the repeal of unlawful regulations. The memorandum highlights that unnecessary regulations impose significant costs on consumers and businesses, and it references recent Supreme Court decisions that have clarified the limits of agency authority. By issuing Executive Order 14219, the Administration requires executive departments to identify and take action to repeal regulations deemed unlawful within 60 days, prioritizing those that conflict with specific Supreme Court rulings.

    The memorandum specifies that agency heads should utilize the ‘good cause’ exception of the Administrative Procedure Act to finalize repeals without the typical notice-and-comment process, where applicable. This approach is justified by the view that retaining unlawful regulations contradicts the public interest and that immediate action is necessary to comply with the law. Agencies must submit a summary of any regulations that are not targeted for repeal, providing an explanation for their decisions to ensure transparency in the process.

    Through this directive, the Administration aims to streamline regulatory processes and eliminate outdated or illegal rules that may hinder innovation and economic progress. This initiative reflects a commitment to restoring constitutional fidelity and enhancing the efficiency of government operations, while also addressing the legal and regulatory landscape shaped by recent judicial rulings.

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  • Maintaining Acceptable Water Pressure in Showerheads

    Maintaining Acceptable Water Pressure in Showerheads

    On April 9, 2025, the President issued an order to rescind a 13,000-word regulation that defined the term ‘showerhead.’ This decision is based on the belief that such extensive regulations hinder the American economy and infringe upon personal freedoms. The directive instructs the Secretary of Energy to publish a notice in the Federal Register, with the repeal becoming effective 30 days after publication.

    The regulation being repealed originated from the Obama-Biden administration, with previous definitions established in 2013 and 2021. The President argues that the Oxford English Dictionary provides a sufficient definition of ‘showerhead’ in just one sentence, suggesting that no extensive regulation is necessary for common household items. The order emphasizes the need for simplicity in regulations to promote economic growth.

    Additionally, the order includes provisions clarifying that it does not affect the functions of the Office of Management and Budget and does not create enforceable rights for any party. This approach underscores a broader commitment to reducing bureaucratic hurdles and streamlining regulations. The move is presented as a way to enhance consumer freedom and reduce regulatory burdens.

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  • Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Tackles Regulations That Stifle Competition

    Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Tackles Regulations That Stifle Competition

    On April 9, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order aimed at addressing regulations perceived as anti-competitive.

    The order directs agency heads to review existing regulations and identify those that create barriers to competition, monopolies, or unnecessary burdens on businesses. This initiative is part of the President’s broader deregulatory agenda, which seeks to promote a more competitive and prosperous economic environment in the United States.

    As part of this Executive Order, agency heads are required to provide the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman and the Attorney General with a list of regulations that may need to be rescinded or modified within 70 days. The order emphasizes the importance of public input, inviting American citizens to share their experiences with regulations that may hinder competition and entrepreneurship. This feedback will be taken into account as agencies determine which regulations should be adjusted.

    The initiative highlights a commitment to enhancing market competition, which is believed to lower prices, accelerate innovation, and increase options for consumers. By seeking input from the public and focusing on deregulation, the administration aims to ensure that the U.S. economy remains competitive and dynamic, thereby supporting ongoing economic growth.

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  • National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2025

    National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2025

    National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

    In a proclamation dated April 9, 2025, President Trump designated April 6-12 as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The proclamation emphasizes the importance of public safety and supporting crime victims, stating that Americans should be able to live without fear of crime. It also critiques previous administrations for policies believed to have contributed to increased crime rates and outlines the current administration’s commitment to improving safety through support for law enforcement and legislative initiatives.

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