Adjusting Certain Delegations Under the Defense Production Act

Mar 18, 2026

Summary

Changes a previous order to give the Secretary of Energy the same powers as the Secretary of Commerce to manage national defense resources.

What problem does this solve?

Previously, only the Secretary of Commerce had certain powers for national defense, and it was unclear when other leaders needed the President's approval. This order gives the Secretary of Energy the same powers and clarifies that leaders with given authority can act on their own.

Who does this affect?

Department of Energy
Department of Commerce
Federal agencies with delegated authority

What does this order do?

Expands authority under the Defense Production Act

Amends a previous order to give the Secretary of Energy the same authority as the Secretary of Commerce. They can now both act independently to manage national defense resources.

Clarifies when presidential approval is needed

Makes it clear that agency heads do not need to ask the President for permission to take action if they already have the authority from a previous order.

Assigns publication costs

States that the Department of Energy is responsible for paying the costs to publish this executive order.

What is the real world impact?

•

Streamlines emergency response for energy crises

Gives the Secretary of Energy direct authority under the Defense Production Act, allowing for faster action during energy-related emergencies without needing approval from the Secretary of Commerce or the President.

When does this start?

This order becomes effective on March 13, 2026, the date it was signed.