Washington Roundup - January 2025
By: Lowell Randal
President Trump Begins Second Term with Numerous Executive Orders
In the first week of his Administration, President Donald Trump has signed dozens of Executive Orders (EOs) impacting a wide variety of policy areas. A summary of selected actions follows:
1. Regulatory Freeze
President Trump has issued a regulatory freeze that halts the implementation of pending regulations across federal agencies. This approach is typical of new administrations and is designed to provide time to review and potentially revise or rescind rules that could hinder economic growth or impose unnecessary burdens.
2. Hiring Freeze, Schedule F, Return to Work and Deferred Resignation
A hiring freeze for federal workers (excluding military personnel) has been put in place along with orders to bring federal workers back in person to the office. The Trump Administration is directing agencies to stop telework and remote work agreements. OPM guidance on return to work can be found here. It has been reported that this policy could impact up to 1 million federal workers. Federal worker unions are already challenging the policy, so litigation is expected.
Trump has also issued an Executive Order to create a class of federal employees called “Schedule F”. The policy will impact federal workers in positions that are of a confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy advocating character (policy-influencing positions) and filled by individuals not normally subject to replacement or change as a result of a Presidential transition. Such career positions will be rescheduled into Schedule Policy/Career and thereby exempted from the adverse action procedures set forth in chapter 75 of title 5 of the United States Code. OPM has issued guidance on the policy.
Finally, the Trump Administration is offering federal employees the option of “deferred” resignation. Under this option, current federal employees can opt to leave federal service and continue to receive their salary and benefits through the end of the fiscal year. More information on deferred resignation can be found on the OPM website.
3. America First Trade Policy
The "America First" trade policy prioritizes protecting U.S. industries and jobs by renegotiating trade agreements and addressing perceived imbalances. Key components include:
- Examination of tariff policies
- Strengthening enforcement of trade rules to prevent dumping and unfair subsidies.
- Reevaluating participation in trade agreements that are deemed disadvantageous to the U.S.
There were concerns that Trump would institute new tariffs on "day one" of his administration. It now appears that additional reviews will be taking place before widespread tariff changes are implemented. However, are indications that a 25 percent tariff on Canada and Mexico could be instituted as soon as February 1st.
4. Immigration and Border Security
New directives on immigration and border security include plans to tighten enforcement at U.S. borders. While these measures aim to enhance national security, they could lead to logistical delays at ports of entry, affecting perishable goods transported via the cold chain.
5. Energy and Sustainability
Energy policy is another prominent theme in recent EOs and Trump has declared a National Energy Emergency. The administration has signaled its commitment to expanding domestic energy production while rolling back regulations perceived as restrictive to energy industries.
Temporary Freeze on Federal Funding Issued, later Rescinded
On January 27, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a government-wide directive temporarily freezing federal grants, loans, or other obligations or disbursement of federal funds that may be covered by policy changes spelled out in earlier Executive Orders. Highlighted areas include programs related to foreign assistance, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and climate change. The White House published a Q&A document with more details on the pause. The action created widespread concern and confusion over the status of ongoing federal programs and its validity had been challenged by the courts. The White House has subsequently rescinded the broad freeze on funding but is indicating the intention to continue targeting funding going to areas highlighted by Trump Executive Orders.
House and Senate Agriculture Committees Announce Membership Rosters
Both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees have released their full membership for this Congress, including subcommittee Chairs and Ranking Members. More information on the committees and subcommittee leadership can be found in the following links:
