Amending the Order of Succession in the Department of Homeland Security

Dec 14, 2016

Summary

Sets a new list of officials who will take over as the head of Homeland Security if the Secretary cannot do their job.

What problem does this solve?

The government needs a clear plan for who is in charge of national security if the top leader is unavailable. This order provides an updated and specific list of people to take over, ensuring the Department of Homeland Security always has a leader.

What does this order do?

Establishes a new line of succession

Creates a specific list of 18 officials, starting with the Deputy Secretary, who will take over if the Secretary of Homeland Security can't perform their duties.

Revokes a previous order

Cancels Executive Order 13442 from 2007, which previously set the order of succession for the department.

Clarifies eligibility rules

States that individuals already serving in an acting role cannot become the acting Secretary through this order. The President can also choose someone else not on the list.

Who does this affect?

Department of Homeland Security officials
Federal government employees

What is the real world impact?

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Ensures leadership continuity

Provides a clear line of succession for the Department of Homeland Security. This prevents confusion and ensures the department can function without interruption during a leadership crisis.

When does this start?

This order became effective when it was signed on December 9, 2016.