PolicyBrief
H.R. 1781
119th CongressMar 3rd 2025
To repeal certain executive orders.
IN COMMITTEE

This bill repeals four executive orders related to energy and environmental policies issued on January 20, 2025, and prohibits the use of federal funds to implement them, while affirming that the bill does not reduce any existing presidential powers.

Kathy Castor
D

Kathy Castor

Representative

FL-14

LEGISLATION

Four Trump-Era Energy EOs Axed: Offshore Wind Back in Play, No Funds for Old Orders

This new bill straight-up repeals four executive orders signed on January 20, 2025, all dealing with energy and environmental policy. Basically, it's hitting the reset button on some major Trump-era moves. The repealed orders are:

  • "Unleashing American Energy"
  • "Putting America First in International Environmental Agreements"
  • "Declaring a National Energy Emergency"
  • "Temporary Withdrawal of All Areas on the Outer Continental Shelf from Offshore Wind Leasing and Review of the Federal Governments Leasing and Permitting Practices for Wind Projects"

And it goes a step further: no Federal funds can be used to keep these dead orders on life support. (SEC. 1)

What's Getting Tossed Out

These four EOs did a few key things. "Unleashing American Energy" likely pushed for more fossil fuel production. "Putting America First" probably pulled back from global climate deals. "Declaring a National Energy Emergency" could've been used to fast-track energy projects, maybe bypassing environmental reviews. And the last one specifically blocked offshore wind leasing. So, if you were working in, say, coal or oil, those were probably good news. If you're building wind turbines off the coast, not so much.

Real-World Ripple Effects

By repealing these orders, the bill opens the door for a different approach. Think of a small business owner who wants to install solar panels – this could signal easier access to incentives or fewer regulatory hurdles. Or consider a coastal community that opposed offshore drilling – this might mean their concerns are back on the table. Specifically, the repeal of the offshore wind moratorium is a big deal for companies and workers in that growing industry (SEC 1).

The Fine Print

There's a "Savings Provision" (SEC. 2) that says this bill doesn't take away any existing Presidential powers. It's a bit of legal CYA, making sure the President still has the authority they're supposed to have. It means that future presidents can issue new executive orders, but they will have to follow the rules.

The Big Picture

This bill is a clear shift away from the previous administration's energy priorities. It signals a potential move back towards renewable energy, environmental protection, and maybe even re-engaging with international climate agreements. Whether you see that as a good or bad thing probably depends on where you stand on those issues. But the practical effect is to wipe the slate clean on these four specific policies.