President’s Executive Order on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Enforcement
On February 10, 2025, the President of the United States issued an Executive Order aimed at addressing the abuse and overreach of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) in recent years. The President highlighted the need to restore proper bounds on FCPA enforcement and prioritize American interests, economic competitiveness, and national security.
Purpose and Policy
The President emphasized that the FCPA, enacted in 1977, has been misused and stretched beyond its intended scope. This misuse harms American interests and undermines the President’s authority over foreign affairs. The President’s foreign policy authority is closely tied to the global economic competitiveness of American companies. Excessive and unpredictable FCPA enforcement against American citizens and businesses for routine business practices abroad not only wastes resources but also hinders American economic competitiveness and national security.
Policy of Enforcement Discretion
The Executive Order directs the Attorney General to review guidelines and policies governing FCPA investigations and enforcement actions for a period of 180 days. During this review period, the Attorney General is instructed to cease initiating new FCPA investigations unless an exception is warranted. Existing investigations and enforcement actions will be reviewed to ensure they align with the President’s foreign policy objectives and prioritize American interests.
Severability and General Provisions
The Executive Order includes provisions for severability, ensuring that if any part of the order is deemed invalid, the remainder remains intact. It also clarifies that the order does not impact the authority of executive departments, agencies, or the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Implementation and Impact
The President’s Executive Order is intended to streamline FCPA enforcement, prioritize American economic competitiveness, and preserve the President’s authority over foreign affairs. By eliminating excessive barriers to American commerce abroad, the order aims to enhance national security and promote a level playing field for American companies.
In conclusion, the President’s Executive Order on FCPA enforcement reflects a strategic approach to safeguarding American interests and economic competitiveness on the global stage. It underscores the administration’s commitment to efficient use of resources and upholding the President’s constitutional authority in foreign affairs.
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