Providing an Order of Succession Within the Department of Justice

Apr 5, 2017

Summary

Creates a list of officials who will lead the Department of Justice if the Attorney General and top deputies cannot perform their duties.

What problem does this solve?

Without a clear plan, the Department of Justice could be left without a leader if top officials suddenly leave or are unable to work. This order makes a specific list of people to take over, making sure there is always someone in charge.

What does this order do?

Establishes a new line of succession

Names the U.S. Attorneys for the Eastern District of Virginia, Eastern District of North Carolina, and Northern District of Texas as successors.

Sets limits on who can succeed

States that individuals serving in an acting role cannot become the acting Attorney General through this order. They must also be eligible under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act.

Preserves presidential authority

Allows the President to choose a different acting Attorney General than the one listed in this order, as long as it is permitted by law.

Revokes a previous order

Cancels Executive Order 13775, which previously set the order of succession for the Department of Justice.

Who does this affect?

Department of Justice officials
U.S. Attorneys

What is the real world impact?

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Ensures government continuity

Provides a clear line of command for the Department of Justice. This prevents confusion and keeps the department running if top leaders are suddenly gone.

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Updates the line of succession

Revokes a previous executive order on the same topic. This allows the President to change the order of who would take over as Attorney General.

When does this start?

This order becomes effective on March 31, 2017, the date it was signed.