President Trump recently issued an Executive Order (EO) to accelerate infrastructure investments in an effort to strengthen the economy and get people back to work. As one response to the economic slowdown brought by the covid-19 pandemic, the EO encourages federal agencies to use existing authority to expedite authorized and appropriated infrastructure projects across the country. Just as important, the EO states that agencies should also provide appropriate protection for public health and safety, natural resources and the environment, as required by law.
Specifically, the order directs federal agencies to take "appropriate steps to use their lawful emergency authorities" and take "all reasonable measures to speed infrastructure investments." The EO also directs agencies to submit a progress report to the White House in 30 days.