PCAST (E.O. 13895)

Summary

Creates a council of experts from outside the government to give the President advice on science, technology, and new ideas.

What problem does this solve?

The United States faces strong global competition in technology and needs new ways to stay ahead. This order creates a special group of science and technology experts to advise the President on how to support new research and ideas.

What does this order do?

Establishes the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST)

Creates a new advisory council to provide the President with advice on science, technology, education, and innovation policy.

Defines council membership

States the council will include the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy and up to 16 other members chosen by the President from outside the federal government.

Outlines the council's duties

Requires the PCAST to advise the President, gather ideas from experts and the public, and provide information on topics like the economy and national security.

Assigns additional advisory roles

Designates PCAST to also serve as the President's Innovation and Technology Advisory Committee and the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel.

Members serve without pay

Specifies that council members will not be paid for their work but can be reimbursed for travel costs.

Sets a two-year termination date

The council will end two years from the date of the order unless the President decides to extend it.

Revokes a previous executive order

Cancels Executive Order 13539 from 2010, which established a similar council under a previous administration.

Who does this affect?

Scientists and researchers
Technology companies and innovators
The President and federal agencies

What is the real world impact?

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Ensures America stays a leader in technology

Creates a direct line for top scientists and innovators to advise the President. This helps the government make smart choices about new technologies like AI to keep the country's economy and security strong.

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Allows for political influence over scientific advice

The President personally appoints all members of the council. This could lead to members being chosen based on their political views rather than just their scientific knowledge, potentially shaping the advice the President receives.

When does this start?

This order became effective on October 22, 2019, and includes a specific end date for the council.

Council Termination

The PCAST is set to end on October 22, 2021, which is two years from the date of the order, unless the President extends it.