This communication from Kimberly Y. Patrick, Deputy Assistant Administrator for the EPA, addresses compliance with a Federal District Court order related to Executive Order 14246, signed by the President on March 25, 2025. The Court has permanently enjoined the implementation of this Executive Order, mandating all EPA personnel, including staff and contractors, to disregard and reverse any actions taken in its enforcement. While the Executive Branch asserts the legality of the Executive Order and the Department of Justice is exploring potential appeals, the EPA is required to comply with the Court's directives to avoid penalties for contempt. The message emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal obligations, and recipients are instructed to share this information within their organizations and contact the Office of General Counsel for further guidance. This highlights the regulatory landscape and the need for agencies to navigate legal and operational frameworks diligently.
The United States District Court for the District of Columbia addressed the case of Jenner & Block LLP versus the U.S. Department of Justice, focusing on Executive Order 14246, which was deemed retaliatory and a violation of the First Amendment. The Court issued an injunction halting the enforcement of specific sections (2-5) of the executive order, instructing federal officials to reverse any actions taken under these provisions. However, while the injunction did not permanently ban all consideration of Section 1, the Court recognized its integral role in justifying the other sections and mandated that its past applications be rescinded. The defendants sought clarification regarding the implications of the Court's order on Section 1, which was denied, as it was maintained that past actions influenced by this section must be undone. Additionally, the Court clarified that the injunction concerning Section 4 was applicable only to Jenner & Block LLP, without affecting wider investigations by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This ruling illustrates the balance between federal executive actions and constitutional rights.
The United States District Court for the District of Columbia has issued an order in the case of Jenner & Block LLP against the U.S. Department of Justice and other defendants. The court granted Jenner & Block's motion for summary judgment, declaring that Executive Order 14246, which aimed to impose restrictions related to the firm, is unlawful under the First Amendment and thus null and void. The order prohibits the defendants from enforcing any measures in the Executive Order, including security clearance reviews, investigations, or disclosure requests concerning the firm. Additionally, all federal employees and contractors are directed to disregard the Executive Order in their dealings with Jenner & Block and resume normal business operations with the firm. The defendants are required to report back to the court within three business days regarding their compliance with this order. The comprehensive list of entities affected by this ruling includes various federal departments and agencies, emphasizing its far-reaching implications across government operations. The court's action highlights a significant legal precedent safeguarding First Amendment rights against unjust executive actions.