Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump blocks California's greener vehicle rules and gas-powered car ban — Former President Donald Trump signed a resolution blocking California's rule to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. This resolution, approved by Congress, also overturns state policies aimed at reducing tailpipe emissions and nitrogen oxide pollution from trucks. California, along with ten other states, has filed a lawsuit challenging this federal action, arguing it undermines state efforts to combat climate change and protect public health. The move is part of a broader conflict between the Trump administration and California over environmental regulations.

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• Trump EPA plans to remove power plant emissions restrictions — The Trump administration's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reportedly drafted a plan to eliminate all restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants in the United States. The EPA claims these emissions are not significant enough to warrant regulation. This move is part of a broader deregulatory effort targeting various environmental protections. The plan is expected to face legal challenges and public comment before implementation. Critics argue that this action ignores the significant contribution of U.S. power plants to global emissions and the associated public health impacts.
• Trump’s EPA announces rollbacks to power plant pollution limits — The Trump administration's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a plan to roll back regulations on power plant emissions. This includes repealing a climate rule aimed at eliminating greenhouse gases from power plants by the 2030s and weakening the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. The rollbacks are expected to increase pollution levels significantly, despite scientific evidence of the harmful effects of such pollutants. The proposals will be open for public comment and are anticipated to face legal challenges.

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• White House Threatens to Pull Federal Funding from California High-Speed Rail Project — The Trump administration has threatened to withdraw billions of dollars in federal funding from California's high-speed rail project, citing a lack of a "viable path" for its completion. Sean Duffy, the US transportation secretary, released a compliance review report indicating that the project is in default of its federal grant terms due to mismanagement and escalating costs. The Federal Railroad Administration's acting administrator, Drew Feeley, stated that the state has no viable plan to deliver even a partial segment of the project on time. California has 30 days to provide documentation to demonstrate compliance.

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• Trump administration proposes budget cuts to NOAA — The Trump administration has proposed a budget that would reduce the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) $6 billion budget by around 25%, effectively eliminating its climate and weather research. This proposal has raised concerns among lawmakers from both parties, as it could significantly impact NOAA's ability to conduct essential research and provide accurate weather forecasts, especially during the hurricane season.
• Proposed Cuts to the National Institutes of Health — The Trump administration's proposed budget for 2026 includes a 43% cut to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), amounting to approximately $20 billion annually. This includes significant reductions to the National Cancer Institute and threatens to end most biomedical research at universities.
• Trump Administration Proposes Further NOAA Budget Cuts — The Trump administration's proposed budget for 2026 includes a 43% cut to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), amounting to approximately $20 billion annually. This includes significant reductions to cancer research and threatens to halt biomedical research at universities.
• — The Trump administration has proposed a draft budget for 2026 that includes a nearly 30% cut to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) budget, amounting to over $1.5 billion. This proposal follows significant staff reductions at NOAA, which have already impacted the agency's ability to forecast weather accurately. The proposed budget cuts could further degrade NOAA's capacity to monitor and respond to severe weather events. Source: Popular Information — Hurricane season is no joke Category: Economic & Regulatory Power Why Relevant: Further budget cuts to NOAA threaten the agency's ability to provide critical weather data, impacting public safety and disaster preparedness. attacks: [science, public_service]

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• Trump Administration Cancels EV Credits and Solar Subsidies — The Trump administration has canceled electric vehicle (EV) credits and solar subsidies, arguing that these energy technologies are unnecessary. This decision is expected to result in job losses in states that have invested heavily in renewable energy and could lead to higher electricity bills, particularly in states like Texas and Iowa.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration imposes job cuts and hiring freeze on National Weather Service — The Trump administration has implemented job cuts and a hiring freeze on the National Weather Service (NWS), leading to understaffing in more than a dozen forecast offices along the Gulf of Mexico coast and Puerto Rico. This shortage affects the NWS's ability to provide timely and accurate weather forecasts as the hurricane season begins. The National Hurricane Center is also short of specialists, despite assurances of full staffing. The cuts have resulted in the loss of over 600 staff since Trump took office, impacting the NWS's capacity to alert and prepare communities for incoming hurricanes.
• Cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration — The Trump administration's budget cuts have significantly impacted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), leading to staff shortages and reduced capabilities in weather forecasting. Reports indicate that 15 National Weather Service (NWS) offices are understaffed, which could hinder disaster preparedness as hurricane season begins.
• Cuts to the National Weather Service — The National Weather Service (NWS) has experienced staffing cuts, resulting in fewer weather balloons and less data collection, which has already affected forecasts during severe weather events. Reports indicate that 15 NWS offices on the Gulf of Mexico are understaffed, raising concerns about the agency's ability to function effectively during hurricane season.
• NOAA Staffing Cuts Impact Weather Forecasting — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has lost approximately 1,000 employees, including 600 from the National Weather Service (NWS), due to staff cuts since Trump took office. This reduction has left many weather forecast offices understaffed, affecting their ability to launch weather balloons and gather data crucial for hurricane forecasting. The cuts have led to reduced accuracy in weather predictions, with some offices unable to perform regular balloon launches. NOAA has announced plans to hire for "mission-critical field positions" to stabilize operations. Source: Popular Information — Hurricane season is no joke Category: Economic & Regulatory Power Why Relevant: The staffing cuts at NOAA undermine the agency's ability to provide accurate weather forecasts, which are essential for public safety during hurricane season. attacks: [science, public_service]

Supporting reports

• Supreme Court releases opinion in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County (23-975) — The Supreme Court released an official slip opinion in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County. Docket number(s): 23-975.
• US Supreme Court Ruling on Utah Railway Project — On May 29, 2025, the US Supreme Court issued an 8-0 ruling in favor of a multibillion-dollar oil railway expansion project in Utah, overturning a lower court's decision that had halted the project. The ruling limits the scope of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), a key environmental law, by endorsing a narrower interpretation of environmental impact assessments. This decision is seen as a victory for the fossil fuel industry, allowing for faster expansion of fossil fuel infrastructure. The project, known as the Uinta Basin Railway, aims to transport crude oil from Utah to refineries on the Gulf Coast.

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• Became Law: Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Rubber Tire Manufacturing" — Congress enacted a resolution disapproving the EPA's rule on hazardous air pollutants for rubber tire manufacturing, effectively nullifying the regulation. This action reflects legislative oversight over environmental regulations.
• Became Law: Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the National Park Service relating to "Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: Motor Vehicles" — Congress enacted a resolution disapproving a National Park Service rule regarding motor vehicle use in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, impacting regulations on park management.

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• Revocation of Waste Emissions Charge for Petroleum and Natural Gas Systems — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revoked the Waste Emissions Charge for Petroleum and Natural Gas Systems following a Congressional Review Act resolution. This action nullifies the 2024 rule, removing it from the Code of Federal Regulations. The revocation is effective immediately and exempts the EPA from notice-and-comment rulemaking due to its ministerial nature. The rule previously facilitated compliance with the Clean Air Act's Methane Emissions Reduction Program.

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• US House of Representatives Allocates $46.5 Billion for Border Wall — On April 27, the US House of Representatives' Homeland Security Committee proposed a budget allocating $46.5 billion to fund new sections of the border wall along the US-Mexico border. This allocation is part of a renewed push to complete the border wall, a contentious issue from the first Trump administration. The funding comes amid declining unauthorized crossings, raising questions about the necessity and environmental impact of the wall.

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• Republicans attempt to pass significant budget bill — Republicans in Congress attempted to advance a budget measure dubbed “One, Big, Beautiful Bill,” which aimed to extend Trump’s tax cuts at a projected cost of $4.6 trillion over ten years while raising the debt ceiling by $4 trillion. The bill faced opposition and ultimately failed to advance out of the House Budget Committee.
• House Budget Committee passes bill in late-night session — The House Budget Committee passed a budget bill after a late-night session, with some members who previously voted 'No' changing their votes to 'Present.' The bill is set to face further scrutiny in the Rules Committee.
• Republicans criticized for scheduling votes at odd hours — Several Democratic representatives criticized Republicans for scheduling votes on significant legislation during late-night hours, suggesting a lack of transparency and public engagement in the legislative process.
• House Committee Advances Trump’s Tax Cut Bill — On May 18, 2025, a key House committee passed a tax cut and border security package, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, after reaching an agreement with far-right Republicans who had previously stalled its progress. The bill, which aims to extend tax breaks from Trump's first term and increase spending on border security, faces challenges in the full House due to potential opposition from moderates concerned about cuts to climate incentives and healthcare programs. The bill's passage is crucial for Republicans, who need to unite their party to pass it before the Memorial Day deadline.
• House Budget Committee Passes Controversial Bill — The House Budget Committee passed a bill referred to as the “Big, Beautiful Bill” on a party-line vote, with 17 Republicans in favor and 16 Democrats against. The bill includes cuts to Medicaid and extends tax cuts for the wealthy, which the Congressional Budget Office estimates will significantly increase the federal deficit. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated minor modifications would be made, while critics argue the bill is being rushed through Congress without adequate scrutiny.
• House Republicans schedule procedural vote on Trump's bill — House Republicans have scheduled a procedural vote for 1am on Wednesday to advance President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which aims to enact his taxation and immigration priorities. The bill includes making permanent or extending tax cuts, ending taxation of tips and overtime, funding a border wall, and mass deportations. It proposes slashing federal safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP to offset costs, which has caused division among Republicans. The bill's passage is crucial for Trump, but it faces opposition from some lawmakers concerned about its impact on Medicaid and the SALT deduction.
• House Rules Committee to Consider Omnibus Bill — The House Rules Committee is scheduled to meet on May 21, 2025, to discuss a 1,116-page omnibus bill proposed by Republicans that aims to implement significant parts of former President Trump's agenda, including cuts to Medicaid and increased logging on public lands. The bill is being advanced through a budget reconciliation process, which allows it to pass with only Republican votes in the Senate. However, there is notable division among Republicans regarding the proposed Medicaid cuts, which are unpopular among constituents.
• House passes Budget Reconciliation Bill — The House of Representatives passed the Budget Reconciliation Bill by a narrow margin of 215-214, with two Republicans voting against it and one voting present. The bill's passage is significant as it will now move to the Senate, where Republican opposition is anticipated.
• Congressional Republicans pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — Congressional Republicans narrowly passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act with a 215-214 vote. The bill aims to permanently extend tax cuts from Trump's first term and introduce new deductions for working-class families, but these benefits will expire in 2028. The bill also includes cuts to social safety net programs, potentially affecting millions of poor and disabled Americans. The legislation is expected to add $3.4 trillion to the deficit by 2034. It now moves to the US Senate for further consideration under the budget reconciliation procedure, which limits Democratic influence.
• House Passes Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" Act — The House of Representatives, controlled by Republicans, passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill" act, which enacts President Donald Trump's taxation and spending priorities. The bill includes making permanent the tax cuts from Trump's first term, increasing the standard deduction, and introducing new tax write-offs. It also allocates significant funds for mass deportations and border wall construction, imposes new fees on immigrants seeking asylum, and restricts federal courts from enforcing certain contempt citations. Additionally, it cuts funding for Medicaid and SNAP, phases out green energy incentives, and raises the debt ceiling by $4 trillion. The bill now awaits consideration in the Senate.
• House Passes Trump's Tax Bill — On May 22, 2025, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a tax bill championed by Donald Trump, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This legislation aims to make permanent the tax cuts established in 2017, which primarily benefit wealthy Americans and corporations. The bill also includes cuts to government assistance programs like Medicaid and SNAP, and ends clean energy tax credits. The bill is expected to cost the federal government $4.6 trillion in lost revenue over the next decade, while saving $1 trillion through reduced spending on assistance programs.
• House passes Trump's tax-and-spend bill — On May 22, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a tax-and-spend bill, which extends Trump's 2017 tax cuts and makes significant spending reductions, particularly in Medicaid and food assistance programs. The bill passed without any Democratic support and has been criticized for potentially increasing the national debt by $2.4 trillion over the next decade. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analysis indicates that the bill would leave 10.9 million more Americans uninsured by 2034. The bill now moves to the Senate, where modifications are expected.
• House passes Trump’s sweeping tax-cut bill — The House of Representatives passed a major tax-cut bill, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which aligns with Donald Trump's tax and spending priorities. The bill, passed by a narrow margin of 215-214, includes provisions for tax cuts for individuals and corporations, funding for a border wall, and new work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP. It is expected to add $2.3 trillion to the deficit. The bill now moves to the Senate, where Republicans aim to pass it by July 4th.
• House Committee Advances Bill with Steeper Medicaid Cuts — After extensive debate, the House Rules Committee agreed to advance The One Big, Beautiful Bill, which includes steeper cuts to Medicaid to gain support from far-right Republicans. These cuts are expected to leave at least 9 million people without healthcare coverage, reflecting a significant shift in healthcare policy.
• House of Representatives passes Republicans' megabill — The House of Representatives passed a significant bill by a vote of 215 to 214, with all Democrats and two Republicans voting against it. The bill includes substantial cuts to healthcare and nutrition assistance, with the Congressional Budget Office estimating that it will result in over 2.7 million households losing benefits. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
• House Rules Committee Begins Hearing on The One Big, Beautiful Bill — The House Rules Committee commenced a hearing on a budget bill dubbed The One Big, Beautiful Bill, which includes significant restrictions on federal courts' authority to hold government officials in contempt for violating court orders. This bill also proposes a $3.8 trillion extension of tax cuts from 2017, primarily benefiting the wealthy and corporations, while cutting federal healthcare and food assistance programs, potentially leaving millions without coverage. The committee moved the bill forward after 22 hours of debate, aiming for a swift vote in the House.
• House Republicans Pass Bill Cutting Medicaid and Medicare — In a late-night session, House Republicans passed a bill that could remove 8 million people from Medicaid, cut Medicare spending, and add $4 trillion to the national debt. The bill also includes tax cuts for the wealthy and funds for the border wall.
• Congressional Budget Office Reports on Impact of Proposed Bill — The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that the proposed budget bill will add $2.3 trillion to the federal deficit over the next ten years and will trigger cuts to Medicare due to the Pay-As-You-Go law. These cuts, limited by law to 4%, are expected to total approximately $490 billion from 2027 through 2034. The CBO's findings highlight the bill's potential negative impact on low-income Americans and the healthcare system.
• Proposed Cuts to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — The proposed budget bill includes cuts of about 30% to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which would be the largest cut in the program's history. This reduction is projected to cut approximately $300 billion from the program through 2034, affecting over 40 million people, including children and seniors.
• House passes Trump’s budget bill with significant cuts — The House of Representatives passed a budget bill that extends tax cuts for individuals and corporations while implementing funding cuts and new work requirements for Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These changes are expected to bar millions from receiving essential benefits, raising concerns among affected workers and advocates. The bill also includes funding for a border wall and facilities for mass deportations.

Supporting reports

• Proposed Budget Reconciliation Bill — The Republican-led Congress is advancing a Budget Reconciliation Bill that aims to implement significant cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, while providing substantial tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations. The bill is framed as a measure for fiscal discipline but has been criticized for its potential impact on vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly. The bill's passage is being expedited, with a deadline set for May 26.
• House Energy and Commerce Committee Proposes Medicaid Cuts — The House Energy and Commerce Committee has released a proposal to cut $880 billion in federal spending over a decade, with significant reductions targeting Medicaid. This plan would strip nearly 9 million low-income Americans of their health insurance and require those earning above the federal poverty level to make co-payments for medical services. The proposal is part of an effort to fund the extension of the 2017 tax cuts. The plan requires approval from both the House and the Senate, where it faces opposition from some Republican senators, including Josh Hawley and Susan Collins.
• House committees release plans for tax cuts and spending cuts — Several House committees, including the Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce committees, released plans for a legislative measure that includes extending the 2017 Trump tax cuts and implementing cuts to various public services, including Medicaid and climate initiatives. The proposed legislation is part of a broader effort to enact Trump's agenda, which has faced significant public opposition.
• House Republicans propose cuts to Medicaid and SNAP — House Republicans are working on a legislative measure that includes significant cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to millions of Americans. The proposed cuts are part of a larger bill that also seeks to extend the 2017 Trump tax cuts, which primarily benefit wealthy individuals and corporations. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that these cuts could result in the loss of healthcare for at least 10.3 million Americans over the next decade.
• House Republicans propose budget bill with major changes — House Republicans have introduced a budget bill that includes significant tax cuts and spending increases, which could add trillions to the federal deficit. Key provisions include a $1,000 savings fund for babies born between 2024 and 2028, increased standard deductions for seniors, work requirements for Medicaid recipients, and additional defense spending. The bill also proposes ending green tax incentives and altering tax deductions for tips and car loan interest. The proposal has sparked internal conflict among Republicans, with some members threatening to block the bill.

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• FAA Grants Increased Launch Permits to SpaceX Amid Environmental Concerns — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted SpaceX permission to increase its rocket launches from Boca Chica, Texas, from 5 to 25 per year, concluding that the additional launches would have "no significant impact" on the environment. This decision follows previous incidents where SpaceX's activities caused environmental damage, raising concerns about regulatory compliance and environmental protection.

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• Trump’s EPA plans to end Energy Star program — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Trump administration plans to end the Energy Star program, which has certified energy efficiency for home appliances for over 30 years. This decision is part of broader agency cuts and the dissolution of the EPA’s office of atmospheric protection and the office of air quality planning and standards. The move has been criticized for potentially increasing utility bills for consumers and removing a popular non-regulatory collaboration between the private sector and the federal government.

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• EPA dissolves its office of science and technology — The Environmental Protection Agency announced the dissolution of its office of science and technology, which was responsible for developing scientific research and guidelines for water policy. This decision is part of a broader restructuring plan under the Trump administration, which also includes adding 130 positions to the office of chemical safety and pollution prevention to address a backlog of chemical and pesticide reviews. The move has been criticized for potentially compromising the scientific integrity of the agency's work.
• Trump administration announces cuts to EPA staff and budget — The Trump administration, through EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, announced a significant reduction in the Environmental Protection Agency's staff and budget, cutting it to levels reminiscent of the 1980s. The budget will be slashed by $300 million for the fiscal year 2026, and the Office of Research and Development (ORD) will see its 1,500 staff members needing to reapply for about 400 new positions. This move is part of a broader overhaul aimed at aligning with Trump's goals of energy independence and cost-cutting. Critics warn that these changes could undermine scientific independence and turn the EPA into a political entity.

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• Trump Administration Cuts Federal Climate Science Agencies — The Trump administration has enacted sweeping cuts to federal agencies like NOAA and FEMA, firing climate scientists and halting data collection. These actions have disrupted climate research and preparedness, with significant implications for national and global climate response capabilities. The administration bypassed congressional oversight, using executive orders to implement these changes.
• Trump Administration Rolls Back Environmental Regulations — In the first 100 days of his second term, President Trump has taken over 140 actions to roll back environmental regulations, including rewriting pollution limits for vehicles and power plants, and reconsidering the public health impact of greenhouse gases. The administration has also accelerated environmental reviews for drilling projects and rescinded water efficiency standards. These actions have faced legal challenges, with courts scrutinizing the administration's attempts to bypass standard regulatory procedures.
• Trump Signs Executive Orders to Boost Fossil Fuel Industry — President Trump signed executive orders to ease restrictions on fossil fuel extraction and exports, appointing industry supporters to key federal positions. The administration has also exempted the fossil fuel industry from certain tariffs, despite economic instability caused by these policies. These actions have been criticized for prioritizing industry interests over environmental and economic stability.
• Trump Targets Public Lands and Environmental Protections — The Trump administration has rescinded protections for federal waters and initiated changes to the National Environmental Policy Act, reducing public oversight. Plans include fast-tracking mining and drilling on public lands and rolling back the Endangered Species Act. These actions threaten conservation efforts and public land management.
• Trump administration declares an "energy emergency" to expand drilling — President Trump has declared an "energy emergency" to open more land and ocean areas for oil and gas drilling. This declaration is part of a broader effort to increase fossil fuel production in the United States, reversing environmental regulations and dismissing climate science. The administration's actions have led to a surge in expected greenhouse gas emissions from US oil and gas fields, contributing to global climate change concerns.
• Trump administration halts approvals of new solar and wind projects on federal lands and waters — The Trump administration has stopped the approval of new solar and wind projects on federal lands and waters. This move is part of a broader agenda to promote fossil fuels and reduce support for renewable energy. The administration has also criticized subsidies for clean energy and imposed high tariffs on solar panels from countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia. These actions have led to the cancellation or downsizing of several large-scale clean energy projects, affecting planned investments in renewable energy.

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• Trump Administration Dismisses Scientists from Climate Assessment — The Trump administration informed nearly 400 scientists they would no longer contribute to the National Climate Assessment, a congressionally mandated report. This decision affects the report's comprehensiveness and scientific integrity.
• Trump administration dismisses contributors to climate report — The Trump administration has dismissed nearly 400 contributors to the sixth National Climate Assessment (NCA), a key US government study on climate crisis preparedness. This assessment, mandated by Congress, is crucial for federal and local governments to plan for climate impacts such as extreme heat, hurricanes, flooding, and drought. The contributors, consisting of scientists and experts, were notified by email, leaving the future of the report, due in 2028, uncertain. The move has drawn criticism for undermining scientific integrity and leaving the nation vulnerable to climate-related disasters.

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• Interior Department fast-tracks fossil fuel and mining permits via emergency declaration — The US Department of Interior announced plans to drastically accelerate permitting for fossil fuel and mining projects, citing President Trump's "energy emergency" declaration. The move reduces environmental review timelines from multiple years to a maximum of 28 days—standard environmental impact statements from two years to under one month. The department invoked emergency powers under the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Historic Preservation Act. Environmental groups immediately challenged the legality of the action, arguing no genuine energy emergency exists and the move circumvents core environmental protections.

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• Trump signs Executive Order 14285 directing accelerated offshore seabed mineral extraction and exploration — President Trump signed Executive Order 14285 on April 24, 2025, directing federal agencies to expedite permitting and licensing for seabed mineral exploration and commercial recovery in U.S. waters and international areas. The order mandates streamlined processes for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Department of Interior to issue permits within 60 days, establish domestic processing capabilities, map priority seabed areas, and engage international partners. The stated goal is to secure critical minerals (nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, titanium, rare earth elements) independent of foreign suppliers and counter Chinese influence over seabed resources.
• Trump signed executive order on deep-sea mining — On April 24, 2025, Trump signed an executive order aimed at boosting the deep-sea mining industry as part of a push to offset China's control of the critical minerals industry. A Trump official stated "We want the US to get ahead of China in this resource space under the ocean, on the ocean bottom." The order represents Trump's latest attempt to boost US production of nickel, copper and other critical minerals used widely across the economy.
• Trump issues executive order to accelerate offshore seabed mineral extraction and processing — President Trump signed an executive order on April 24, 2025, directing federal agencies to expedite permitting and licensing for exploration and commercial recovery of critical minerals from seabed resources in U.S. waters and international areas. The order establishes a 60-day timeline for the Secretary of Commerce and Secretary of the Interior to streamline approval processes, map priority seabed areas, and coordinate with allies on mineral development partnerships. It aims to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign suppliers for minerals essential to defense, infrastructure, and energy sectors.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14285 directing expedited permitting for offshore seabed mineral extraction — President Trump signed Executive Order 14285 on April 24, 2025, establishing policy to accelerate U.S. development of seabed mineral resources. The order directs the Secretaries of Commerce and Interior to expedite permitting for exploration licenses and commercial recovery permits for polymetallic nodules and other critical minerals in areas beyond national jurisdiction and within the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. It mandates reports within 60 days on private sector opportunities, processing capacity, international partnerships, and feasibility of using the National Defense Stockpile for seabed minerals. The order frames seabed mineral access as essential to national security and economic independence from foreign suppliers.
• White House issued fact sheet on Trump executive order for offshore critical minerals development — The White House published a fact sheet on April 24, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump directing accelerated exploration and commercial recovery of deep seabed minerals. The order instructs the Secretaries of Commerce, Interior, Energy, and State to expedite permitting, map priority seabed areas, establish domestic processing capacity, and engage international partners. The fact sheet claims the order positions the U.S. as a "global leader in seabed mineral exploration" and strengthens partnerships to "counter China's influence."

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• White House celebrates Earth Day with statement on environmental stewardship and resource extraction — On Earth Day 2025, the White House under President Donald J. Trump issued a statement claiming "we finally have a president who follows science," emphasizing policies rooted in American stewardship of natural resources and explicitly rejecting the "Green New Scam." The statement highlighted the administration's commitment to "opening more federal lands and waters for oil, gas, and critical mineral extraction" as a core environmental policy.
• White House issues Earth Day release claiming Trump administration follows science on environment — The White House published a promotional release on Earth Day asserting that the Trump administration's environmental policies are "rooted in reality" and "rooted in the belief that Americans are the best stewards of our vast natural resources." The release claims the administration is promoting energy innovation including carbon capture, nuclear energy, and geothermal power; championing forest management and logging expansion; ending paper straw mandates; cutting emissions regulations for coal plants; opening federal lands for oil, gas, and mineral extraction; and pausing wind projects to protect wildlife. The release characterizes prior climate policies as "virtue signaling" and a "Green New Scam."

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• President Trump issued proclamation permitting commercial fishing in Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument — President Trump signed a proclamation on April 17, 2025, modifying the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) to permit commercial fishing in designated areas. The proclamation states that appropriately managed commercial fishing would not jeopardize the monument's protected objects and directs the Secretary of Commerce to expeditiously publish new rules amending or repealing regulations restricting commercial fishing. The order applies to areas 50–200 nautical miles from landward boundaries and restricts permits to U.S.-flagged vessels, except for transshipment by foreign vessels.
• Trump proclamation permits commercial fishing in Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument — President Trump issued Proclamation 10918 on April 17, 2025, modifying the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) to permit commercial fishing in designated zones 50–200 nautical miles from landward boundaries. The proclamation revises prior management language from Proclamations 8336 (2009) and 9173 (2014), which had prohibited all commercial fishing across over 400,000 square miles. The Secretary of Commerce is directed to expeditiously publish new rules amending or repealing regulations restricting commercial fishing. Only U.S.-flagged vessels are permitted, with limited exceptions for foreign vessels transshipping U.S.-harvested fish.
• White House issued fact sheet promoting proclamation opening Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument to commercial fishing — The White House published a fact sheet on April 17, 2025, promoting a proclamation signed by President Trump that opens the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) to commercial fishing. The fact sheet states the proclamation allows U.S.-flagged vessels to fish commercially within 50 to 200 nautical miles of the PRIMNM's boundaries, claims this will boost the economy of American Samoa and support American fishermen disadvantaged by "overregulation," and frames the action as part of a broader deregulation initiative.

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• Trump signed Executive Order 14276 directing regulatory review and trade strategy for seafood competitiveness — President Trump signed Executive Order 14276 on April 17, 2025, directing the Secretary of Commerce to review and reduce regulatory burdens on commercial fishing, aquaculture, and fish processing within 30 days; to develop an America First Seafood Strategy with the Secretary of Agriculture; to work with the U.S. Trade Representative on a comprehensive seafood trade strategy within 60 days addressing unfair trade practices and illegal fishing; and to review marine national monuments for potential opening to commercial fishing within 180 days. The order states the U.S. controls over 4 million square miles of fishing grounds but that nearly 90 percent of seafood consumed domestically is imported, with a seafood trade deficit exceeding $20 billion.
• White House issues fact sheet on executive order to restore American seafood competitiveness — The White House published a fact sheet on April 17, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump to strengthen the U.S. fishing industry. The order directs the Secretary of Commerce to suspend or rescind regulations burdening commercial fishing, aquaculture, and fish processing. It instructs the National Marine Fisheries Service to modernize fishery assessments, expand exempted fishing permits, and improve data collection. The order establishes an America First Seafood Strategy, mandates a seafood trade strategy to address unfair foreign competition, and orders a review of marine national monuments to assess opening them to commercial fishing.
• Trump signs Executive Order 14276 to reduce seafood regulations and address trade practices — President Trump signed Executive Order 14276 on April 17, 2025, directing the Secretary of Commerce to suspend, revise, or rescind regulations burdening commercial fishing, aquaculture, and fish processing within 30 days. The order mandates development of an "America First Seafood Strategy," directs the U.S. Trade Representative to assess unfair trade practices and IUU fishing, requires review of marine national monuments for potential opening to commercial fishing, and streamlines the Seafood Import Monitoring Program. The order builds on Executive Order 13921 (2020) and aims to reduce the seafood trade deficit and increase domestic production.
• Trump issues executive order on seafood competitiveness and fishing regulation — President Trump signed Executive Order "Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness" on April 17, 2025, directing the Secretary of Commerce to reduce regulatory burdens on commercial fishing, aquaculture, and fish processing within 30 days. The order mandates development of an "America First Seafood Strategy," requires the U.S. Trade Representative to assess unfair trade practices and IUU fishing, and directs review of marine national monuments for potential opening to commercial fishing. It aims to address the $20 billion seafood trade deficit and the fact that 90 percent of U.S. seafood is imported.

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• Center for Biological Diversity sues Trump administration over "unleash American energy" executive order and green policy rollbacks — The environmental nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration challenging its day-one executive order directing federal agencies to identify and weaken or eliminate policies and regulations that "unduly" burden fuel producers. The lawsuit seeks information about action plans from the Department of Interior, Department of Commerce, EPA, and Forest Service. The suit follows a February FOIA request that officials have not answered, and comes as the administration has announced plans to eliminate greenhouse gas reporting requirements and other environmental protections.
• Green groups sue federal officials over removal of climate and environmental justice data from government websites — Environmental groups filed a lawsuit against federal officials over the removal of government webpages containing federal climate and environmental justice data. This action is part of a broader pattern of the Trump administration deleting or restricting access to environmental information and records.
• USDA erases climate data from department records — The U.S. Department of Agriculture erased climate data from its records, prompting a lawsuit from environmental advocates. This action is part of the administration's systematic removal of climate-related information from federal agencies.

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• Trump signs Executive Order 14270 establishing zero-based regulatory budgeting with sunset provisions for energy-sector regulations. — President Trump signed Executive Order 14270 on April 9, 2025, directing specified federal agencies—EPA, DOE, FERC, NRC, and subcomponents of Interior and Army—to incorporate sunset provisions into regulations governing energy production, mining, and related activities. Covered regulations issued under designated statutes must include a conditional sunset date of one year from the effective date of the implementing rule (by September 30, 2025), subject to agency extension only after public comment demonstrating net benefit. New regulations may have sunset dates up to five years. The order aims to compel periodic reexamination of regulations to reduce what the administration characterizes as regulatory burden on energy innovation.
• Trump issues executive order requiring sunset provisions for energy-sector regulations — President Trump signed Executive Order "Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting To Unleash American Energy" on April 9, 2025, directing the EPA, Department of Energy, FERC, NRC, and related Interior and Army agencies to insert one-year conditional sunset dates into existing energy regulations and five-year sunset dates into new ones. Agencies must solicit public comment before extending sunsets. The order exempts regulatory permitting regimes and coordinates with the "DOGE Team" (Department of Government Efficiency). Regulations that expire are not counted toward the ten-for-one deregulatory requirement in a prior executive order.
• White House issues fact sheet on executive order requiring automatic rescission of energy regulations — The White House published a fact sheet on April 9, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump that day. The order requires ten agencies to insert one-year expiration dates into existing energy regulations; regulations not affirmatively extended will expire by September 30, 2026. Future energy regulations must include five-year expiration dates unless deregulatory. The fact sheet characterizes the policy as "zero-based regulation" designed to reset the regulatory landscape and prioritize energy abundance over efficiency.
• Trump issues executive order directing agencies to identify and rescind anti-competitive regulations — President Trump issued an executive order on April 9, 2025, directing federal agencies to review and identify regulations that create barriers to market entry, limit competition, or facilitate monopolies. Within 70 days, agency heads must consult with the Federal Trade Commission Chair and Attorney General to list anti-competitive rules and recommend rescission or modification. The FTC will solicit public input via a 40-day request for information, and within 90 days of receiving agency lists, the FTC will provide OMB a consolidated list of regulations warranting removal or change, to be incorporated into the Unified Regulatory Agenda.
• White House issued Executive Order 14267 directing federal agencies to identify and rescind anti-competitive regulations — The White House issued Executive Order 14267 on April 9, 2025, directing all federal agency heads to review regulations under their authority and identify those that create monopolies, erect barriers to market entry, limit competition, impose unnecessary licensure requirements, burden procurement processes, or otherwise restrain free-market operation. Agency heads must submit lists of identified regulations to the Federal Trade Commission Chairman and Attorney General within 70 days, with recommendations for rescission or modification. The FTC Chairman will issue a public request for information and, within 90 days of receiving agency lists, provide a consolidated list to the Office of Management and Budget for potential incorporation into the regulatory agenda.
• White House issued fact sheet on executive order directing agencies to identify and rescind anti-competitive regulations — The White House published a fact sheet on April 9, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump directing agency heads, in coordination with the Federal Trade Commission Chairman and Attorney General, to review regulations and identify those imposing anti-competitive restraints. Within 70 days, agencies must submit lists of anti-competitive regulations and proposals to rescind or modify them. The order also directs the FTC to solicit public input on regulations that impede competition. The fact sheet frames the order as part of a deregulatory agenda to restore competition and economic growth.

Supporting reports

• Reinvigorating America's Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241 — President Trump signed Executive Order 14260 on April 8, 2025, directing the Attorney General to identify all state and local laws, regulations, and causes of action burdening domestic energy development—particularly those addressing climate change, environmental justice, carbon emissions, or ESG initiatives—that the administration deems unconstitutional, preempted by federal law, or otherwise unenforceable. The order instructs the Attorney General to expeditiously stop enforcement of such laws and submit a report within 60 days recommending additional presidential or legislative action.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14260 directing Attorney General to identify and challenge state energy and climate laws as unconstitutional or preempted. — President Trump signed Executive Order 14262 on April 8, 2025, invoking emergency authority under the Federal Power Act to address electricity demand surge from AI data centers and manufacturing. The order directs the Secretary of Energy to streamline Department of Energy processes for issuing orders under section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, develop a uniform reserve-margin methodology within 30 days, and establish protocols to identify and retain generation resources critical to system reliability. The order authorizes DOE to prevent generation resources exceeding 50 megawatts from leaving the bulk-power system or converting fuel sources if such conversion would reduce accredited generating capacity.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14262 directing DOE to streamline emergency authority for electric grid reliability and develop reserve-margin methodology to retain generation resources. — On April 8, 2025, President Trump signed a series of executive orders designed to permit and expand coal plant construction. The orders are cited in the climate petition as part of the broader pattern of federal fossil fuel promotion that the young activists argue violates international human rights obligations. The orders exemplify the Trump administration's pro-fossil fuel regulatory posture.
• Trump signs executive orders to expand coal plant construction — President Trump signed an executive order on April 8, 2025, directing the Secretary of Energy to streamline Department of Energy processes for issuing emergency orders under the Federal Power Act to maintain electric grid reliability during supply interruptions. The order requires the Secretary to develop a uniform methodology for analyzing reserve margins across all bulk power system regions within 30 days, establish protocols to identify critical generation resources, and prevent generation resources exceeding 50 megawatts from leaving the grid or converting fuel sources if doing so would reduce accredited capacity. The order invokes emergency authority under a prior national energy emergency declaration.
• Trump issued executive order directing energy secretary to streamline grid reliability protocols and prevent power plant retirements. — President Trump issued Executive Order "Protecting American Energy From State Overreach" on April 8, 2025, directing the Attorney General to identify and challenge state and local laws regulating energy production, with particular focus on climate-related policies. The order characterizes state climate regulations—citing New York's climate liability law, Vermont's emissions penalties, and California's carbon cap system—as unconstitutional or preempted by federal law. The Attorney General is instructed to take "expeditious" action to stop enforcement of identified state laws and report within 60 days on actions taken and recommendations for additional presidential or legislative measures.
• Trump issues executive order directing DOJ to challenge state energy regulations — President Trump signed an executive order on April 8, 2025, designating coal as a "mineral" under Executive Order 14241 and directing federal agencies to remove regulatory barriers to coal production, expedite coal leasing on federal lands, and promote coal exports and use in electricity generation and steel production. The order requires the Departments of Interior, Agriculture, and Energy to assess coal resources on federal lands within 60 days and instructs multiple agencies to identify and revise policies that discourage coal investment.
• Trump issues executive order to reinvigorate coal industry and amend mineral production directive — President Trump signed Executive Order 14260 on April 8, 2025, directing the Attorney General to identify all state and local laws, regulations, and policies that burden domestic energy development—particularly those addressing climate change, environmental justice, carbon emissions, or ESG initiatives—and to take action to stop their enforcement. The order characterizes such state laws as unconstitutional, preempted, or otherwise unenforceable, citing concerns about energy costs, national security, and federalism. The Attorney General must report within 60 days on actions taken and recommend additional presidential or legislative measures.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14260 directing the Attorney General to identify and challenge state energy regulations as unconstitutional or preempted federal law. — President Trump signed Executive Order 14262 on April 8, 2025, directing the Secretary of Energy to streamline Department of Energy processes for issuing orders under the Federal Power Act during grid emergencies, develop a methodology to identify regions with low reserve margins, and establish protocols to retain generation resources identified as critical to system reliability. The order states it aims to address electricity demand from AI data centers and manufacturing. Section 3(c) authorizes the Secretary to prevent generation resources over 50 megawatts from leaving the bulk-power system or converting fuel sources if such conversion would reduce accredited generating capacity.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14262 directing emergency streamlining of energy generation approvals and retention of coal and fossil fuel plants. — The White House published a fact sheet on April 8, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump that day. The order directs the Secretary of Energy to streamline emergency processes under the Federal Power Act, develop a uniform methodology to analyze reserve margins across bulk power regions, and prevent critical generation resources from leaving the grid or converting fuel sources if doing so would reduce accredited generating capacity. The fact sheet frames the order as a response to rising electricity demand from AI data centers and manufacturing.
• White House issued fact sheet promoting executive order on electric grid reliability and security — The White House published a fact sheet on April 8, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump directing the Attorney General to identify and challenge state laws and policies that burden domestic energy production. The order states it targets laws addressing climate change, environmental justice, carbon emissions, and carbon taxes. The fact sheet claims state policies in New York, Vermont, and California raise energy prices and disrupt supply. The Attorney General is directed to submit a report within 60 days detailing actions taken and recommendations.
• White House issued fact sheet promoting executive order on state energy regulation — The White House signed Executive Order 14261 on April 8, 2025, directing federal agencies to remove regulatory barriers to coal production, designate coal as a "mineral" under prior executive order, assess coal resources on federal lands, expedite coal leasing, lift mining barriers, identify and revise policies discouraging coal investment, promote coal exports, expand categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act for coal projects, and accelerate coal technology development. The order states coal is "essential to our national and economic security" and directs the Secretary of Interior to terminate the "Jewell Moratorium" on coal leasing.
• White House signed Executive Order 14261 to reinvigorate coal industry and amend Executive Order 14241 — President Trump issued Proclamation 10914 on April 8, 2025, exempting certain coal-fired electricity generation facilities from compliance with the EPA's May 2024 Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule revision for a two-year period (July 8, 2027–July 8, 2029). The proclamation invokes section 112(i)(4) of the Clean Air Act and asserts that required emissions-control technology does not exist in commercially viable form and that the exemption serves national security and energy security interests. The exemption delays compliance obligations, reverting affected sources to pre-2024 MATS standards during the exemption window.
• Trump proclamation exempts coal-fired power plants from EPA emissions standards for two years. — On April 8, 2025, Trump signed four executive orders aimed at reviving the coal industry. He used emergency authority to allow older coal-fired power plants scheduled for retirement to continue producing electricity, claiming this is needed to meet increased energy demands from datacenters, AI, and electric cars. The order "slashes unnecessary regulations that targeted the beautiful, clean coal." Coal is the dirtiest fossil fuel and its usage has long been in decline.
• Trump signed four executive orders reviving coal industry — President Trump signed a proclamation on April 8, 2025, exempting certain coal-fired electricity generation facilities from compliance with the EPA's 2024 Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) amendments for a two-year period (July 8, 2027 to July 8, 2029). The proclamation asserts that the required emissions-control technologies do not exist in commercially viable form and claims the exemption is necessary for national security, grid reliability, and energy security. The exemption delays compliance obligations that would otherwise take effect in 2027.
• Trump issued proclamation exempting coal-fired power plants from EPA emissions standards for two years — The White House published a fact sheet on April 8, 2025, promoting an executive order signed by President Trump that day. The order directs agencies to designate coal as a "mineral" under prior executive authority, lift barriers to coal mining on federal lands, rescind policies favoring transition away from coal, and promote coal exports and use in steel production and AI data centers. The fact sheet claims the coal industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and adds tens of billions annually to the economy.
• White House issued fact sheet promoting executive order on coal industry — The White House published a fact sheet on April 8, 2025, describing a proclamation signed by President Trump granting two years of relief from the Biden-era Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule to certain coal-fired power plants. The fact sheet states the proclamation allows affected plants to comply with a less stringent version of the EPA standard, claims this prevents premature plant closures, and asserts the measure protects energy grid stability and national security. The document characterizes the Biden-era rule as imposing "unattainable compliance requirements" and "commercially unviable" emissions-control technologies.
• White House issues fact sheet on EPA coal plant emissions relief proclamation — Trump said that some law firms that agreed to provide pro bono services to the administration will be working with coal companies on "leasing and other things." He also bragged about the agreements with the firms, saying "they give me a lot of money considering they've done nothing wrong." Trump has targeted or threatened law firms that partnered with or represented his political enemies, claiming they have "weaponized" the legal system.
• Trump said law firms will work with coal companies — President Trump signed four executive orders on Tuesday aimed at reviving coal production and allowing older coal-fired power plants scheduled for retirement to continue operating. The orders direct federal agencies to end policies discriminating against coal, impose a moratorium on Biden-era climate protections for coal plants, promote coal as a "secure" energy source, and instruct the Justice Department to investigate state policies that disadvantage coal. The administration framed the move as addressing rising electricity demand from datacenters, AI, and electric vehicles, though environmental groups criticized it as economically backward.
• Trump signs four executive orders to revive coal industry and allow retirement-scheduled plants to remain operational