President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday aimed at bringing independent agencies under closer presidential control and supervision. The order directs all executive departments and agencies to submit draft regulations to the White House for review.
The order emphasizes the policy of ensuring Presidential supervision and control of the entire executive branch. It mandates that all executive departments and agencies, including independent agencies, submit proposed and final significant regulatory actions to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) within the Executive Office of the President before publication in the Federal Register.
According to a White House fact sheet, there will be no exemptions for independent agencies, except for the monetary policy functions of the Federal Reserve. The agencies are required to consult with the White House on their priorities and strategic plans, with the White House setting their performance standards in coordination with the Office of Management and Budget.
The fact sheet specifically mentions independent agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for allegedly wielding significant power over the American people without adequate Presidential oversight.
However, the move has faced criticism from groups like Public Citizen, a progressive advocacy organization, which has labeled the executive order as 'illegal' and a 'giant gift to the corporate class.'
