Why President Trump's Executive Orders Matter to Nonprofits and How You Can Take Action Executive orders (EOs) signed by the President provide directives to federal agencies that carry the force of law. Once issued, they remain in effect unless they expire, are revoked, or are overturned in court. Only a sitting President has the authority to rescind previous executive orders, and while Congress can pass legislation to support or oppose their effects, it cannot directly overturn them. Since President Trump’s inauguration, he signed dozens of EOs on a wide range of issues, significantly influencing government operations.
Why This Matters to Nonprofits Charitable nonprofits serve diverse causes—ranging from community services to environmental protection. Executive orders can impact their funding, staffing, and operational policies. These effects may be immediate or challenged in court, making it essential for nonprofits to stay informed about new and existing EOs.
What Nonprofits Should Do Now Nonprofits, especially those with federal grants or contracts—such as those providing diversity, equity, and inclusion training, immigration services, LGBTQ+ advocacy, or environmental work—should review their programs, policies, and contractual language promptly. Understanding how these executive orders affect their operations is vital for ensuring continued service and compliance.
What Can You Do?
Call to Action We encourage individuals and nonprofit leaders to contact their U.S. Congress representatives to express concerns about how executive orders may impact community services and civil rights. Advocacy and awareness are crucial for protecting nonprofit missions and ensuring government actions align with community needs.
Tenenbaum, J. S., Esq. (2025, April 17). Nonprofits under fire: How the IRS can — and cannot — revoke Federal Tax-Exempt Status. The Nonprofit Alliance. https://tnpa.org/nonprofits-under-fire-how-the-irs-can-and-cannot-revoke-federal-tax-exempt-status
The impacts of the recent executive orders on nonprofits. (2025, May 2). National Council of Nonprofits. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/impacts-recent-executive-orders-nonprofits