Phosphorus & Herbicides EO (E.O. 14387)

Summary

Boosts the U.S. supply of key chemicals for farming and defense by giving the government more control over their production and distribution.

What problem does this solve?

The U.S. relies heavily on other countries for phosphorus and certain weed killers, which are vital for both military equipment and growing food. This order gives the Secretary of Agriculture power to make sure the U.S. can produce enough of these chemicals at home to protect our food supply and national security.

Who does this affect?

Agricultural Sector
Chemical Manufacturers
Defense Industry

What does this order do?

Grants legal immunity

Provides legal protection to domestic producers who are required to comply with orders issued under this executive order.

Delegates defense production act authority

Gives the Secretary of Agriculture the President's power under the Defense Production Act to manage the supply of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides.

Declares phosphorus and herbicides critical to national defense

Officially finds that elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides are essential materials for national defense, military readiness, and food security.

Requires setting national priorities

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to determine nationwide priorities and allocate all materials and services needed to ensure a steady supply of these chemicals.

Protects domestic producers

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to ensure that any actions taken do not harm the financial stability of any U.S. producer of these chemicals.

What is the real world impact?

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Protects a single domestic producer from competition

Explicitly states that any rules must not put the 'corporate viability' of any domestic producer at risk. Since there is only one, this could be seen as protecting a monopoly.

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Could prioritize military needs over farming

Gives the government power to allocate these chemicals. This could lead to defense contractors getting priority, potentially raising costs or creating shortages for farmers.

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Strengthens national security and food supply

Reduces reliance on foreign countries for materials critical to both defense manufacturing and agriculture, making the U.S. more self-sufficient and secure.

When does this start?

This executive order takes effect on February 18, 2026, the date it was signed.