H.R.2873 - To continue Executive Order 14220 in effect indefinitely. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2873 aims to make Executive Order 14220 permanent. The Executive Order, issued on February 25, 2025, addresses national security threats related to copper imports. The bill seeks to ensure that the Executive Order and any related actions or regulations remain in effect indefinitely.
Expected Effects
If passed, H.R. 2873 would prevent the Executive Order 14220 from expiring. This would give the executive branch continued authority to regulate copper imports deemed a threat to national security. The long-term impact would depend on how the executive branch continues to implement and enforce the Executive Order.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially strengthens national security by ensuring continuous protection against threats related to copper imports.
- Provides stability for industries affected by copper imports, allowing for better long-term planning.
- May prevent economic disruptions that could arise if the Executive Order were to expire and the threat resurfaced.
- Could encourage domestic copper production, reducing reliance on foreign sources.
- Allows agencies to continue enforcing regulations already in place, minimizing uncertainty.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to trade disputes with countries that export copper to the US.
- May increase costs for industries that rely on imported copper, potentially impacting consumer prices.
- Reduces flexibility in trade policy by making the Executive Order permanent.
- Could be seen as an overreach of executive power if the threat is not consistently demonstrated.
- May stifle innovation in industries that use copper if import restrictions are too stringent.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment hinges on the extent to which the Executive Order 14220, and by extension H.R. 2873, aligns with the powers granted to Congress and the President. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. The President's authority in national security matters is often debated, but is generally understood to be derived from Article II.
If the Executive Order is deemed to be an overreach of executive power into areas reserved for Congress, then H.R. 2873 would inherit that misalignment. The indefinite continuation of the order could be viewed as an abdication of Congressional oversight responsibilities.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).