Trump Signs Game-Changing Executive Order to Boost DOGE Spending Review Powers

Trump Signs Game-Changing Executive Order to Boost DOGE Spending Review Powers

In a recent executive order, the Trump administration has mandated the establishment of a “centralized technological system” across federal agencies to enhance transparency in contract and grant awards. This initiative, guided by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aims to streamline federal spending and accountability.

Key Features of the Executive Order

The executive order outlines several critical measures to ensure that federal spending is monitored effectively. Here are the main components:

  • Mandatory Justification for Approvals: Agency employees who authorize contract and grant payments must now provide written justifications for their decisions.
  • Payment Review Process: Agency heads are empowered to “pause and rapidly review” payments lacking proper justification.
  • Centralized Recording of Travel Approvals: The order requires agencies to implement systems that log approvals for federally funded travel, particularly for conferences or other non-essential purposes.

Impact on Federal Employees

As part of these new policies, employees will need to justify not only contract payments but also travel expenses related to non-essential activities. This could significantly impact how federal employees plan and execute travel for conferences.

DOGE’s Expanding Role

The DOGE initiative has been granted extended powers to monitor federal spending activities. Earlier this month, the department sent a communication to federal workers requesting a report on their weekly accomplishments, warning that failure to respond could lead to termination. This data is reportedly intended to be processed by an AI algorithm to assess the mission-critical nature of employees’ work.

Background of DOGE

Established through an executive order signed by President Trump on January 20, DOGE was formed to enhance efficiency within federal agencies. The initiative rebranded the U.S. Digital Service and tasked teams of “special government employees” primarily composed of young professionals from the private sector, including those affiliated with Elon Musk’s ventures. However, concerns have been raised about the lack of oversight and the implications for cybersecurity and privacy practices.

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For further information, you can visit the White House’s official page on executive orders or explore related topics on federal spending reform.

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