Planet Money OIRA: The tiny office that's about to remake the federal government
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Apr 16, 2025 Dive into the intriguing world of OIRA, the federal office gaining unprecedented power under a new executive order. Explore how this shift could shake up independent agencies like the SEC and FCC, affecting financial markets and democracy itself. Discover the delicate balance between agency independence and presidential control, and the implications of changing regulatory landscapes. With a rich history of influence, OIRA's evolving role is at the forefront of crucial political dynamics and public policy.
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OIRA's Role
- Congress delegates rulemaking power, creating overlap between agencies.
- OIRA helps coordinate and minimize conflicts between these agencies.
Presidential Intervention
- Susan Dudley describes a situation where the EPA wanted separate air quality standards for people and crops.
- President Bush intervened, forcing the EPA to adopt a single standard.
Independent Agencies
- Independent agencies like the SEC, FTC, and FCC operate with some autonomy from the White House.
- This independence prevents presidential influence on market regulations.