Forced Labor Task Force (E.O. 13923)

Summary

Establishes a new government group to make sure the U.S. enforces the ban on bringing in goods made by people who are forced to work.

What problem does this solve?

The United States needs a coordinated way to enforce its ban on importing goods made with forced labor. This order creates a special task force with members from different government departments to monitor and enforce this ban.

What does this order do?

Creates the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force

Establishes a new group to monitor how the United States enforces its ban on importing goods made with forced labor.

Defines task force members and leadership

Appoints the Secretary of Homeland Security as the chair. Includes members from the Departments of State, Treasury, Justice, and Labor, and the U.S. Trade Representative.

Sets up a decision-making process

Requires the task force to try to make decisions by agreement. If they can't agree, they will use a majority vote, with the chair breaking any ties.

Specifies funding for the task force

States that each government department and agency on the task force must pay for its own costs.

Who does this affect?

U.S. government agencies
U.S. importers

What is the real world impact?

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Fulfills a legal requirement

Creates a task force as required by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act, ensuring the U.S. meets its obligations under the new trade deal.

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Strengthens enforcement against forced labor

Centralizes the effort to stop goods made with forced labor from entering the U.S. by bringing together key government agencies to focus on the problem.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately as of May 15, 2020.