President Trump – Rescission of Prior Executive Orders 

“Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity”

As the new White House administration issues executive orders and implements new legislation, Maddin Hauser’s DC Digest will highlight the changes and identify key points affecting businesses and individuals. Follow our blog series to stay informed.

Date Signed: January 21, 2025

Type of Action: Executive Order Rescinding Prior Executive Orders

Title: “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.” 

Details: This order mandates the termination of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) policies within federal agencies and federal contractors and encourages the private sector to follow suit. It revokes several previous executive actions, including:

• Executive Order 12898 (1994): Focused on environmental justice in minority and low-income populations.
• Executive Order 13583 (2011): Established a government-wide initiative to promote diversity and inclusion in the federal workforce.
• Executive Order 13672 (2014): Expanded protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
• Executive Order 11246 (1965): Prohibited employment discrimination by federal contractors and required affirmative action.

The Executive Order directs the U.S. Attorney General to consult with various government agencies and submit a report within 120 days, providing recommendations for enforcing federal civil rights laws and deterring discriminatory DEI practices. 

Additionally, the Attorney General and the Secretary of Education are tasked with issuing guidance on compliance with the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that rejected affirmative action in university admissions.

Implications for Corporate and Labor and Employment Clients:

For corporate clients, this Executive Order may signal increased scrutiny of DEI policies and practices. Companies, especially federal contractors, should review and potentially adjust their DEI initiatives to ensure compliance with the new directives. Labor and employment clients may need to reassess their hiring, training, and promotion practices to align with a merit-based framework, as the order emphasizes the enforcement of existing civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

If you have any questions or would like assistance, please contact Ronald A. Sollish or another member of Maddin Hauser’s Corporate or Labor and Employment team.