PA Chamber of Business and Industry reviews Executive Orders

Source: PA Chamber of Business and Industry

President Donald Trump signed dozens of executive actions during his first week in office, setting a wide-ranging policy agenda aimed at boosting U.S. economic growth and reshaping regulations. The measures, which include initiatives on energy, trade, and government restructuring, are expected to have significant implications for businesses in Pennsylvania and across the nation.

Energy Expansion an Early Focus

Trump declared a “national energy emergency” and issued orders to expedite drilling permits on federal lands, expand natural gas production, and revive projects like the Keystone XL pipeline. These actions, the administration says, will create jobs and lower energy costs while strengthening energy independence. Pennsylvania, the nation’s second-largest natural gas producer, is well-positioned to benefit from greater development opportunities.

Trade Policies to Impact U.S. Industry

The president also threatened to impose tariffs of up to 25 percent on goods from Mexico and Canada, beginning February 1, and hinted at similar actions targeting Chinese imports. He also signed an order to establish an “External Revenue Service” to collect tariffs and duties, aiming to redirect foreign trade revenues into the U.S. economy.

Government Efficiency Overhaul

Trump reinstated a federal hiring freeze and signed an order creating the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to modernize federal operations and streamline bureaucracy. The initiative is designed to reduce regulatory burdens on businesses and improve government services.

Regulatory Rollbacks Begin

In a sweeping rollback of Biden-era policies, Trump rescinded 78 executive orders related to environmental protections and workplace diversity initiatives. The administration says these changes will lower compliance costs and foster a more business-friendly environment.

The PA Chamber will keep members informed of key federal policy developments as the new administration gets underway.

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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.