Council on Women and Girls (E.O. 13506)

Summary

Creates a White House group to make sure the government considers the special needs of women and girls when making rules and programs.

What problem does this solve?

Even with much progress, women still face problems like lower pay, fewer chances in science fields, and lack of family leave. This order creates a special council in the White House to focus all parts of the government on fixing these issues.

What does this order do?

Creates the White House Council on Women and Girls

Establishes a new council within the Executive Office of the President to coordinate a federal response to issues that affect women and girls.

Defines the council's mission

Tasks the council with providing recommendations to the President on policies and laws, suggesting changes to federal programs, and helping develop new proposals important to women and girls.

Requires a federal interagency plan

Directs the council to develop and give the President a plan with recommendations for how different government agencies can work together to help women and girls.

Specifies council membership

Includes the heads of nearly every major executive department and agency, such as the Secretary of State, Attorney General, and Secretary of Defense, as members of the council.

Limits the council to an advisory role

States that the functions of the council are for advice only, meaning it can make suggestions but cannot force any department or agency to act.

Who does this affect?

Women and girls
Federal government agencies

What is the real world impact?

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Coordinates government-wide efforts for women's equality

Ensures that all federal departments work together to address issues like the pay gap, educational opportunities, and health care for women and girls, creating a unified government strategy.

When does this start?

This order takes effect starting March 11, 2009, and includes a specific deadline for the new council.

Federal Interagency Plan Submission

The council must create and submit a plan with recommendations to the President within 150 days of March 11, 2009.