On February 18, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at increasing White House oversight of independent federal agencies, including the FCC, FTC, and SEC.
The order mandates that these agencies submit significant regulatory actions for review by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) before publication in the Federal Register.
Additionally, the Director of OMB is tasked with establishing performance standards and management objectives for the heads of these agencies, reporting periodically to the President on their efficiency and adherence to set standards.
This move seeks to enhance accountability and ensure a unified execution of federal law under presidential supervision. Notably, the order exempts the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy functions but includes its regulatory activities.
Critics argue that this directive challenges the traditional independence of these agencies, potentially subjecting them to increased political influence.
Legal challenges are anticipated, as the order may face opposition from those who view it as an overreach of executive power.