Providing an Order of Succession Within the Environmental Protection Agency
Jan 19, 2017
Jan 19, 2017
Summary
Creates a list of officials who will take charge of the EPA if the top leaders cannot do their jobs, ensuring the agency can keep running.
What problem does this solve?
Without a clear plan, the Environmental Protection Agency could face a leadership crisis if its top officials suddenly could not serve. This order prevents that by creating a specific list of people, in order, to take over as the temporary head.
What does this order do?
Establishes the line of succession for the EPA Administrator
Lists 16 officials, starting with the General Counsel, who will take over if the Administrator and Deputy Administrator cannot perform their duties.
Sets rules for who can act as Administrator
Specifies that individuals already serving in an acting capacity cannot become the acting Administrator through this order and must be eligible under the law.
Preserves presidential authority
Allows the President to choose a different acting Administrator than the one listed in the order of succession, as long as it is permitted by law.
Revokes a previous executive order
Cancels Executive Order 13737 from 2016, which previously set the order of succession for the EPA.
Who does this affect?
- Environmental Protection Agency officials
- Federal government employees
What is the real world impact?
•
Ensures continuous leadership at the EPA
Provides a clear chain of command to prevent confusion or a leadership gap if the Administrator and Deputy Administrator are unable to serve. This ensures the agency can continue its work without interruption.
When does this start?
This order became effective when it was signed on January 13, 2017.