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Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS)
(Coming)
Referenced by...From day 1 Biden lessens Trump influence (2021-Jan-20)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
Agency of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that responds to environmental health emergencies; investigates potential environmental health threats and conducts research on the health impacts of hazardous waste sites.
Website: www.atsdr.cdc.gov.
Referenced by...Administration hides study showing dangers in drinking water (2018-May-14)
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB)
A bureau under the Treasury Department.
The TTB enforces provisions of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act. It is responsible for collecting excise taxes on alcohol, tobacco, and firearms.
It also approves liquor stores and and permitting for tobacco and alcohol - including their labeling and marketing.
It was created by the 2002 Homeland Security Act.
Website: www.TTB.gov.
Referenced by...No new craft beers during shutdown (2019-Jan-09)
Army Reserve
One of the country's reserve military forces.
Similar to the National Guard, but the Reserves are under the direct authority of the military - and not subject to be called to duty by a state's governor.
Website: www.usar.army.mil.
Attorney General (AG)
The U.S. Attorney General is the chief law enforcement officer and attorney of the government, and head of the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Senate confirmation required for directorsBureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF)
Website: www.ATF.gov
Bureau of Competition
The Bureau of Competition is the part of the Federal Trade Commission that reviews corporate mergers and other anticompetitive practices.
Bureau of Consumer Protection
The Consumer Protection Bureau is the part of the Federal Trade Commission that helps consumers avoid fraud, deception, and other unfair business practices.
Senate confirmation required for directorsBureau of Economics
The Bureau of Economics is the part of the Federal Trade Commission that supports antitrust and consumer protection investigations.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Website: www.BIA.gov.
Bureau of International Organization Affairs (IO)
A bureau within the Department of State, it is the U.S. government's primary interface with the United Nations (UN)
It maintains diplomatic missions in Austria, Canada, Italy, Kenya, and Switzerland - as well as in New York - to develop international policy at the U.N. in concordance with other nations and international organizations.
Referenced by...
State Dept. harassed employees for political leanings (2019-Aug-15)
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The Bureau of Labor Statisics is a government agency that measures and reports on the U.S. labor market, working conditions, and consumer prices. The information is used by Congress to help make relevant laws. For more, visit www.BLS.gov.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Website: www.BLM.gov.
Referenced by...Mitigation for damage to public lands no longer required (2018-Jul-24)
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)
Website: www.BOEM.gov
Bureau of Reclamation
Part of the Department of the Interior (DOI) that manages water in the western United States - including dams, powerplants, and canals.
The agency is the country's largest wholesaler of water, and second-largest producer of hydroelectric power.
Website: www.USBR.gov.
Cabinet
The President's Cabinet is the group of the President's highest level advisors.
Article 2, Section 2 of the Constitution states that "(The President) may require the opinion, in writing, of the principal officer in each of the executive departments, upon any subject relating to the duties of their respective offices".
The Cabinet consists of...
o Secretary of State
o Secretary of the Treasury
o Secretary of Defense
o Attorney General
o Secretary of the Interior
o Secretary of Agriculture
o Secretary of Commerce
o Secretary of Labor
o Secretary of Health and Human Services
o Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
o Secretary of Transportation
o Secretary of Energy
o Secretary of Education
o Secretary of Veterans Affairs
o Secretary of Homeland Security
The following are not official Cabinet positions, but have Cabinet-level rank...
o Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency
o Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
o U.S. Trade Representative
o Ambassador to the United Nations
o Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors
o Administrator of the Small Business Administration
For more about the Cabinet, visit www.Whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet.
Senate confirmation required for directorsCalifornia Air Resources Board (CARB)
Website: arb.ca.gov.
Census Bureau
(Coming)
Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP)
(Coming)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Website: www.CDC.gov.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
The federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that administers Medicare and works with state governments to administer Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
For more information, visit www.CMS.gov.
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
The foreign intelligence service for the United States.
Website: www.CIA.gov.
Civil Rights Division
Part of the Department of Justice (DOJ) that enforces federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, disability, religion, familial status and national origin.
It was created by the 1957 Civil Rights Act .
Website: www.justice.gov/crt.
Referenced by...White House proposes eliminating civil rights agency (2018-Feb-12)
Civil Service
Employees of the federal government (other than military)
Community Relations Service (CRS)
Federal agency under the Department of Justice (DOJ) that works with local governments and communities to reduce conflicts and tensions arising from things such as race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability.
It provides resources and assistance such as mediatiation and training. It has no investigatory or law enforcement authority.
The agency was created by the 1964 Civil Rights Act .
Website: www.justice.gov/crs.
Referenced by...White House proposes eliminating civil rights agency (2018-Feb-12)
Congressional Budget Office (CBO)
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is a branch of Congress that provides objective and impartial analysis of economic issues (including budgets) that representatives propose and vote on.
For more, visit the CBO website at www.CBO.gov.
Congressional Research Service (CRS)
The Congressional Research Service is an agency run by the Library of Congress which provides members of the Senate and House of Representatives with impartial information to help them legislate policies.
Unlike most other federal agencies, the Congressional Research Office does not publish its reports to the public. Instead, it makes its reports available only to members of Congress, who may individually decide whether to make them publicly available. You also can request a report from your representative.
Website: www.loc.gov/crsinfo/.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is the federal agency responsible for protecting consumers against unfair lending practices and other practices with regard to financial products and services.
It was founded as a result of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act - enacted by Congress in response to the recession and financial crisis in the late 2000s.
Website: www.ConsumerFinance.gov
Senate confirmation required for directorsReferenced by...
From day 1 Biden lessens Trump influence (2021-Jan-20)
CFBP to stop oversight of predatory lending to military members (2018-Aug-10)
Car loan minority protections repealed (2018-Apr-23)
CFPB enforcements dwindle under Trump appointee (2018-Apr-11)
Payday loan companies sue to prevent regulations (2018-Apr-09)
CFPB top salaries under Mulvaney soar (2018-Apr-05)
Who is head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau? (2017-Nov-27)
House passes bill to revoke consumer and financial protections (2017-Jun-08)
Bills would eliminate Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (2017-Feb-14)
House resolution would remove protections for prepaid cards (2017-Feb-03)
New protections for users of prepaid cards (2016-Oct-05)
Wells Fargo fined for creating secret accounts (2016-Sep-08)
Regulations would curtail payday loan debt cycle (2016-Jun-02)
Seniors losing homes due to reverse mortgages (2012-Oct-15)
Consumer Protection agency forces Capital One reimbursement (2012-Jul-18)
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
A government independent agency that regulates the safety of most consumer products and informs the public of hazards and recalls.
The agency does not regulate products that are regulated by other agencies, such as...
o Guns (regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF))
o Drugs (regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)).
Website: www.CPSC.gov
Council of Economic Advisors
Website: www.Whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/cea.
Counselor to the President
Official name of a position for a senior-level person who advises the president and aids in other functions such as communications.
The position was created by President Richard Nixon and has been employed differently by each president since.
Court of Appeals
Federal appeals courts (also known as circuit courts that hear appeals from district courts.
Appeals usually are heard by a panel of three judges randomly selected from available judges of the court. Decisions can be appealed to the Supreme Court.
For a list of Courts of Appeals, visit BallotPedia.org.
Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit
The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals is possibly the most powerful court in the United States, other than the Supreme Court. It decides cases regarding federal agencies - such as regulations they impose.
The court is made up 11 judges and several part-time "senior" judges.
Several of this court's former judges later served on the Supreme Court, including John Roberts, Clarence Thomas, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Antonin Scalia, Brett Kavanaugh, and Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Other notable people who have served on the D.C. Circuit Court include Merrick Garland, Robert Bork and Kenneth Starr.
Note: Court judges do not represent any political party. The color of each judge's name represents the political party of the president who appointed the judge.
Website: www.cadc.uscourts.gov.
Referenced by...Court to review ethics complaints against Kavanaugh (2018-Oct-11)
Trump nominates Brett Kavanaugh for Supreme Court (2018-Jul-09)
Court, District
Trial courts that hear federal crimes.
Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
Federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for coordinating programs to strengthen U.S. cybersecurity, emergency communications, and critical infrastructure.
It was established by the 2018 Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Act.
Website: www.CISA.gov.
Referenced by...Elecion security chief reports no fraud. Trump fires him. (2020-Nov-17)
Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA)
Website: www.DIA.mil.
Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board (DNFSB)
An independent federal agency that advises the president and Department of Energy (DOE) on public health and safety issues at defense nuclear facilities.
It was formed in 1988 by the National Defense Authorization Act, toward the end of the Cold War and soon after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
The board has only advisory power.
Website: www.dnfsb.gov.
Dept of Agriculture (USDA)
The federal agency responsible for administering policies related to food, farming, agriculture, and forestry.
For more, visit www.USDA.gov.
Dept of Commerce
(Coming)
Website: www.Commerce.gov
Referenced by...
Chinese tech company ZTE banned from U.S. dealings (2018-Apr-16)
Dept of Defense (DoD)
Website: www.defense.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of Education
The Department of Education establishes general policies for education in the United States.
One of its missions is to prohibit discrimination and ensure equal access to education.
Website: www.Ed.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of Energy (DOE)
Cabinet-level department of the federal government that administers policies regarding energy and nuclear material.
Website: www.Energy.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsReferenced by...
Government can't account for nuclear weapons material (2018-Jul-27)
Dept of Health and Human Services (HHS)
The principal government agency for protecting the health of Americans. It is comprised of agencies that do research and provide services including public health, food and drug safety, and health insurance.
For more, visit www.HHS.gov.
Dept of Homeland Security (DHS)
Cabinet department that oversees the protection of United States' territories. This includes preventing and responding to terrorist attacks, and responding to natural disasters.
It was created by the 2002 Homeland Security Act.
Agencies that make up DHS include...
o Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
o Coast Guard
o Secret Service
o Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Website: www.dhs.gov
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Website: www.HUD.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsReferenced by...
HUD takes back door to suspend anti-segregation program (2018-May-18)
FHA insurance price cut will save homeowners hundreds (2017-Jan-09)
Administration lays out new rules to encourage neighborhood integration (2015-Jul-08)
Dept of Justice (DOJ)
Website: www.Justice.gov
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of Labor (DOL)
Website: www.dol.gov
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of State (DoS)
The Department of State typically is referred to as the State Department.
It is the federal agency responsible for the country's foreign policy - including international relations and treaty negotiations.
Website: www.State.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of the Interior (DOI)
Federal lands make up about 1/5 of the United States. The Department of the Interior is responsible for managing this land - from maintaining national parks to leasing land for grazing or oil drilling to preserving cultural resources.
Agencies that make up the Department of the Interior include...
o Bureau of Indian Affairs
o Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)
o Bureau of Reclamation
o National Parks Service
o U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
Website: www.DOI.gov
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of the Treasury
Cabinet-level agency responsible for ensuring the United States' financial security. Its functions include...
o Collecting revenue (such as taxes)
o Disbursing payments to Americans (such as tax refunds)
o Borrowing money needed to run the federal government
o Advising the President on economic and financial issues
o Helping to govern the country's financial institutions
Website: www.Treasury.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of Transportation (DOT)
Website: www.Transportation.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsDept of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The Department of Veterans Affairs (most often referred as simply the VA) provides services to U.S. military veterans and their families.
One area of the VA - the Veterans Health Administration - is one of the country's main health care systems.
Website: www.va.gov
Director of National Intelligence (DNI)
The principal advisor to the president on intelligence issues related to national security.
Website: www.DNI.gov.
Senate confirmation required for directorsReferenced by...
New intel director after mandated replacement resigns (2019-Aug-15)
Intel head resigns. Nominee tried to derail Russia inquiry (2019-Aug-01)
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
(Coming)
Economic Research Service (ERS)
Federal agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
It provides information and research on agriculture and economics.
It was created in 1863.
Website: www.ers.usda.gov.
Election Assistance Commission (EAC)
The Election Assistance Commission is a four-member, non-partisan commission recommends voting system guidelines. It also maintains the national mail voter registration form. There currently are no commissioners assigned to this commission.
For more, visit www.EAC.gov.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Website: www.EPA.gov.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Federal agency that enforces federal laws regarding discrimination or harassment by employers (or potential employers).
Website: www.EEOC.gov.
Referenced by...From day 1 Biden lessens Trump influence (2021-Jan-20)
Gender pay equality bill passes House (2019-Mar-27)
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
The part of the USDA responsible for implementing laws regarding farms - especially the Farm Bill.
For more, visit www.FSA.USDA.gov.
Federal Advisory Committee
Temporary committees established by the executive branch to provide expert advice on a particular subject.
They are required to follow guidelines specified in the 1972 Federal Advisory Committee Act, including transparency to the public and having a membership that is "fairly balanced in terms of points of view represented".
They must be disbanded once their mission has been completed.
For more, read this Congressional Research Service report.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Website: www.FAA.gov.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The prime federal law enforcement agency of the United States.
In addition to investigating federal crimes, the FBI also is the primary agency for domestic intelligence. The FBI director reports to both the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence.
Website: www.FBI.gov.
Referenced by...Senate confirms Brett Kavanaugh to Supreme Court (2018-Oct-06)
Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP)
Website: www.BOP.gov.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
An independent federal agency that regulates interstate communications - including those by radio, television, wire, cable, and satellite.
It is directed by five commissioners who are appointed by the president and serve a 5-year term (unless filling an unexpired term). Commissioners may not have a financial interest in any commission-related business. No more than three can be of the same political party.
The FCC was created by the 1934 Communications Act.
Website: www.FCC.gov.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
The FDIC is a Government Owned Corporation that protects the money you deposit in banks.
It was created by the 1933 Banking Act (Glass-Steagall) to prevent panicked withdrawals from banks - by assuring depositors that their money will be safe even if the bank goes out of business.
The FDIC is funded with premiums paid by member banks.
Federal Election Commission (FEC)
U.S. independent regulatory agency that administers and enforces laws regarding federal election financing.
Website: www.FEC.gov.
Referenced by...Election monitoring agency prevented from acting (2019-Aug-30)
Judge: Secret donations violate election finance law (2018-Aug-04)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Website: www.FEMA.gov.
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
An independent agency within the Department of Energy (DOE) that regulates interstate electricty sales, hydroelectric facilities, and pricing for electric and natural gas power.
According to its website, there are some things that are outside the commission's jurisdiction, including...
o Regulating nuclear power plants (managed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC))
Website: www.FERC.gov
Federal Housing Administration (FHA)
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures mortgages - protecting lenders in case the homebuyer defaults on their mortgage.
This typically is for buyers who can't afford a large enough down payment to qualify for a loan. A bank will lend to these borrowers because the FHA will insure the lender gets paid back.
This helps people who don't have much in savings buy a house.
In exchange, home buyers requiring an FHA guarantee pay a Mortgage Insurance Premium.
Website: www.FHA.gov.
Referenced by...FHA insurance price cut will save homeowners hundreds (2017-Jan-09)
Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA)
Website: www.FHFA.gov.
Referenced by...Supreme Court: President can fire agency heads (2021-Jun-23)
From day 1 Biden lessens Trump influence (2021-Jan-20)
Federal Insurance Office
Office under the Treasury Department that monitors the insurance industry to identify problems that could contribute to a financial crisis.
It also monitors the availability of insurance (except health insurance) to traditionally underserved communities and consumers.
It was created by the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA)
Independent federal agency that governs relations between the federal government and government employees.
It was created by the 1978 Civil Service Reform Act.
Website: www.FLRA.gov.
Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
Website: Railroads.DOT.gov.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
The Federal Trade Commission is the fedaral agency that protects consumers against deceptive unfair business practices. The FTC also maintains a website (www.consumer.ftc.gov) that provides alerts on products and scams, and services such as the national
You can learn more about the FTC at FTC.gov.
The FTC consists of three organizations...
Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
Website: www.Transit.DOT.gov.
Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)
A bureau of the Treasury Department.
FinCEN collects and analyzes data about financial transactions to fight financial crimes.
Website: www.FinCEN.gov.
Referenced by...Trump's lawyer's company received millions in payments (2018-May-08)
Issue: Russians' Secretive Deals with Donald Trump
Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC)
The FSOC watches for risks in the U.S. financial system. It was created by the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
The council attempts to identify banks and other financial companies considered so large that their failure could pose a threat to financial markets (designated as too big to fail).
If nonbank financial companies get too big, the council can require they be regulated by the Federal Reserve. The council also can recommend that the Federal Reserve adopt stricter rules for factors such as liquidity and risk management as companies grow in size.
Members include the Secretary of the Treasury and the heads of nine federal financial regulatory agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Website: www.treasury.gov/initiatives/fsoc/Pages/home.aspx.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The FDA is the government agency that regulates several foods, drugs, and other products to ensure their safety and efficacy.
Website: www.FDA.gov.
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) responsible for the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products.
Website: www.FSIS.USDA.gov.
Referenced by...Pork inspection being turned over to slaughterhouses (2019-Apr-14)
General Services Administration (GSA)
Federal agency that manages the basic functioning of other federal agencies.
Its functions include managing government buildings, purchasing equipment and supplies, and hiring contractors.
Website: www.GSA.gov.
Government Accountability Office (GAO)
An independent, nonpartisan government agency that monitors federal spending of public money.
The GAO does its work at the request of Congressional committees. It often is referred to as the congressional watchdog.
Note: The GAO originally was called the General Accounting Office.
Website: www.GAO.gov.
Government Owned Corporation
A corporation that is owned by the federal government and exists to provide services to the public.
They are more politically independent than federal agencies (such as the Environmental Protection Agency) or federal independent commissions (such as the Federal Communications Commission or Nuclear Regulatory Commission).
Government Owned Corporations include...
o Export-Import Bank
o Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
o Gallaudet University
o Government National Mortgage Association
o Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (PBGC)
o Tennessee Valley Authority
Government Publishing Office (GPO)
(Coming)
Government Sponsored Enterprise
Government Sponsored Entities are private companies created by Congress for the purpose of making it easier for consumers to borrow.
They essentially do this by buying loans such as mortgages and student loans from banks. This gives the banks money for new loans.
They also can receive support from the government, such as a line of credit from the U.S. Treasury.
The most well-know Government Sponsored Enterprises are mortgage resellers Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Health Resources and Services Administration (HHRSA)
Part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It is the primary federal agency for improving access to health care services for those with the least access.
HHRSA also is responsible for determining what types of preventive care should be covered in certain health plans under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA).
Website: www.HHRSA.gov
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Website: www.ICE.gov.
Independent Agency
Federal agencies, commissions, and boards that are not controlled by the president or Congress.
Members are appointed by the president and approved by the Senate, but once appointed they usually can only be removed for good cause or when their term expires.
Independent agencies include...
o The Federal Elections Commission (FEC)
o The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
o The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Inspector General (IG / OIG)
An official responsible for investigating an organization or activity.
The Office of the Inspector General for a government department or agency monitors that agency for fraud, abuse, or other mismanagement.
Inspectors general for federal agencies are required to be politically independent.
Inspectors General for Government agencies:
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Department of the Interior (DOI)
Department of Justice (DoJ)
Department of State (DoS)
Department of the Treasury
U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
Inspector General - Russia investigation not political (2019-Dec-10)
Whistleblower: Trump is soliciting foreign election interference (2019-Sep-26)
State Dept. harassed employees for political leanings (2019-Aug-15)
Pork inspection being turned over to slaughterhouses (2019-Apr-14)
Migrant children separated more - and earlier (2019-Jan-17)
Interior's Zinke resigns. Replaced by oil lobbyist (2019-Jan-02)
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
The agency responsible for collecting taxes, interpreting tax laws, and enforcing those laws. It is part of the Treasury Department.
For more, visit www.IRS.gov
Internation Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB)
Agency of the Department of Labor (DOL) that manages the department's international roles.
These roles include combating child labor and human trafficking.
Website: www.DOL.gov/agencies/ilab.
Referenced by...Acosta cuts budget to fight child exploitation (2019-Jul-10)
IRS Oversight Board
An independent body created by Congress in 1998 to improve how the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) serves taxpayers.
It currently consists of nine members...
o The Commissioner of the IRS
o 7 members appointed by the president to 5-year terms.
Website: www.treasury.gov/IRSOB
Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT)
A Congressional committee made up of members of both the House of Representatives and Senate that researches issues regarding taxation.
Website: www.JCT.gov.
Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction
(Coming)
Library of Congress
Website: www.loc.gov/
Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC)
Website: www.MedPAC.gov.
Merit Systems Protection Board
(Coming)
Referenced by...Election monitoring agency prevented from acting (2019-Aug-30)
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Agency of the Department of Labor (DOL) that works to prevent illness, injury, and death from mining.
Website: www.MSHA.gov.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Government agency that manages the United States space program.
Website: NASA.gov
National Archives
Website: www.archives.gov
National Centers for Environmental Information
Website: www.NCEI.NOAA.gov
National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC)
Agency under the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) that integrates intelligence related to terrorism.
Website: www.dni.gov/index.php/nctc-home.
Senate confirmation required for directorsNational Guard
A reserve force of the U.S. military. It is organized by state.
Members typically live as civilians, serving one weekend per month. But they can be called at any time (either by the president or their state's governor) to deal with domestic emergencies or overseas combat missions.
Also see Army Reserve.
Website: www.NationalGuard.com.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
The NHTSA is the federal agency responsible for regulating cars and other motor vehicles. Issues the agency deals with include...
o Fuel economy
o Car-theft prevention
o Consumer information
The NHTSA was created by the 1970 Highway Safety Act, and is part of the Department of Transportation.
For more, visit their website at www.nhtsa.gov.
National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)
Federal agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
It coordinates all federally funded agricultural research.
It was created by the 2008 Food, Conservation, and Energy Act (also referred to as the 2008 Farm Bill).
Website: nifa.usda.gov.
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
An agency of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that performs health-related research.
It is made up of more than 25 separate organizations called Institutes and Centers.
Website: www.NIH.gov.
National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
Federal agency created to prevent unfair labor practices and resolve disputes between labor unions and companies. It ensures that employers follow the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act. It has power to prosecute violations of labor laws.
The agency is run by five members, each appointed to a 5-year term.
For more information, visit www.NLRB,gov.
From day 1 Biden lessens Trump influence (2021-Jan-20)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Website: www.NOAA.gov
National Park Service
Website: www.NPS.gov
Referenced by...Changed regulation could quash protests (2018-Oct-15)
National Taxpayer Advocate
(Coming)
National Trade Council (NTC)
A White House office created in 2017 by newly-elected President Donald Trump. It is unclear at this time what role the NTC will play.
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides technical assistance to farmers and other land managers.
It formerly was called the Soil Conservation Service.
Website: www.NRCS.USDA.gov.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
Website: www.NRC.gov
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Agency of the Department of Labor (DOL) that sets and enforces workplace safety standards.
It was created by the 1970 Occupational Safety and Health Act.
Website: www.OSHA.gov.
Referenced by...Supreme Court rejects and allows vaccine requirements (2022-Jan-13)
Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP)
Website: www.epa.gov/aboutepa/about-office-chemical-safety-and-pollution-prevention-ocspp.
Referenced by...Administration hides study showing dangers in drinking water (2018-May-14)
Office of Compliance (OOC)
Federal agency created by the 1995 Congressional Accountability Act (CAA). The agency administers the workplace protections for Congressional offices that the act provides for.
Website: www.Compliance.gov.
Referenced by...TX Rep. Farenthold resigns amid payment scandal (2017-Dec-01)
Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE)
The Office of Congressional Ethics of the House of Representatives is an independent agency that reviews allegations of misconduct against representatives and their staffs.
If further investigation for possible charges is needed, the OCE refers the complaint to the House Ethics Committee. Even if the committee decides to take no action, the report from the OCE still is made public.
The is no such office for the Senate. The Executive Branch has a related office - the Office of Government Ethics (OGE).
Website: oce.house.gov.
Referenced by...NY: Rep. Chris Collins indicted for insider trading (2018-Aug-08)
IN Rep. Marlin Stutzman referred to Ethics Committee (2016-Aug-31)
CA Rep. Duncan Hunter referred to Ethics Committee (2016-Aug-31)
NC Rep. Mark Meadows referred to Ethics Committee (2016-Aug-17)
TX Rep. Roger Williams referred to Ethics Committee (2016-May-13)
FL Rep. Alan Grayson referred to Ethics Committee (2016-Jan-06)
CO Rep. Jared Polis referred to Ethics Committee (2015-Oct-30)
CA Rep. Mike Honda referred to Ethics Committee (2015-Jun-05)
OK Rep. Jim Bridenstine referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
NY Rep. Yvette Clark referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
IL Rep. Danny K. Davis referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
TX Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
NJ Rep. Leonard Lance referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
TX Rep. Ruben Hinojosa referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
NM Rep. Michelle Lujan-Grisham referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
NY Rep. Gregory Meeks referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
TX Rep. Ted Poe referred to Ethics Committee (2015-May-08)
Office of Foreign Missions (OFM)
Website: www.state.gov/ofm.
Office of Government Ethics (OGE)
The Office of Government Ethics advises the president and his or her administration on issues in which there might be a conflict of interest.
The OGE has no investigative or enforcement authority. It acts mainly in an advisory role to help prevent conflicts of interests from arising.
It was created by the 1978 Ethics in Government Act.
This differs from the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) for the House of Representatives, which investigates ethics complaints against representatives and their staffs.
Website: www.oge.gov.
Office of Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs (IO/HRH)
Office within the Bureau of International Organization Affairs (IO) that works with the United Nations (UN) and international organizations to advance U.S. policy relating to human rights.
Website: www.state.gov/key-topics-bureau-of-international-organization-affairs/.
Referenced by...State Dept. harassed employees for political leanings (2019-Aug-15)
Office of Language Services
Part of the State Department that provides interpreters and translators for the president and other federal officials.
For more about the job of a presidential interpreter, read The Atlantic story.
Website: www.state.gov/m/a/ols.
Trump hid details about Putin meetings (2019-Jan-14)
Trump meets Putin privately under shadow of indictments (2018-Jul-16)
Office of Legal Counsel (OLC)
Office within the Department of Justice (DOJ) that provides legal advice on presidential (and other executive branch) actions.
The OLC has been nicknamed the president's law firm, and at times has formulated opinions that appear to merely find justification for a president's questionable action. These decisions are interpretations of the law, and do not carry the force of law.
These decisions include...
o A 2002 memorandum essentially allowing for the torture of certain prisoners.
Website: www.justice.gov/olc.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
Website: https://www.Whitehouse.gov/omb.
Office of National Resources Revenue (ONRR)
The Office of National Resources Revenue is part of the Department of the Interior (DOI).
When a company such as an energy or mining company leases land from the U.S. government, this is where they send the money.
Website: www.ONRR.gov.
Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
The government independent agency that oversees the recruitment and employment policies of the federal government.
Website: www.opm.gov
Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)
Website: www.acf.hhs.gov/orr.
Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)
Federal agency that advises the president on the effects of science and technology on issues.
Website: www.whitehouse.gov/ostp/.
Office of Special Counsel (OSC)
Federal agency with the primary role of protecting federal employees and applicants from prohibited practices.
Authority for the agency comes from these laws...
o Whistleblower Protection Act
o Hatch Act
o Uniformed Services Employment & Reemployment Rights Act
Website: www.OSC.gov.
Referenced by...Administration members accused of illegal campaign activity (2019-Jun-13)
Office of the Inspector General (OIG)
Part of a government department or agency that monitors that agency for fraud, abuse, or other mismanagement.
Office of the Pardon Attorney
Office of the Department of Justice (DOJ) that assists the president when deciding to offer clemency to someone who committed a federal criminal offense.
The office researches cases and provides a recommendation to the president for each applicant.
Website: www.justice.gov/pardon.
Office on Violence Against Women (OVW)
Office in the Department of Justice (DOJ) created to help communities develop programs to prevent domestic violence and sexual assault, and to strengthen services to victims.
It was created by the 1994 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Website: www.justice.gov/ovw.
Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC)
Committee made of up 20 inspectors general created to oversee the spending of several trillion dollars authorized by various coronavirus relief programs passed by Congress.
Website: pandemic.oversight.gov.
Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (PBGC)
A Government Owned Corporation that takes over the paying of pensions to retirees when a company's pension fund is inadequate to pay the pensions it owes to retirees. One way this can happen is the pension is underfunded and the company becomes bankrupt.
It was created in 1974 by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
There are limits to the the amount a retiree may receive. Therefore a retiree whose pension has been taken over by the PBGC might lose part of their pension.
The PBGC is funded by the companies it insures - through premiums and the money left in pensions it takes over. However, if it should run out of money because it is paying more in pensions than it has, there would be two options...
o Make up the difference with money from the federal government. In other words, your tax dollars.
* Bonus Material: You might read about two different funds the organization maintains. The single-employer fund guarantees pensions from individual companies. The multiemployer fund guarantees pensions sponsored by unions which can involve several companies.
Website: www.PBGC.gov
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)
Agency of the Department of Transportation (DOT) that regulates the 2.5 million miles of pipeline in the United States.
It is made up of two separate offices - the Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) and the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety (OHMS).
Website: www.phmsa.dot.gov.
Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC)
Website: www.PRC.gov.
Referenced by...Your mail is taking longer. It's deliberate. (2021-Oct-01)
POTUS
Acronym for President Of The United States
President's Council of Economic Advisers (CEA)
(Coming)
President's Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ)
(Coming)
SCOTUS
Acronym for Supreme Court Of The United States
Secret Service
The Secret Service is a federal law enforcement agency.
It is known mostly for its role in protecting the president and others associated with the president, but it has several roles in protecting the country's infrastructure (including financial).
It was established in 1865 to suppress counterfeiting. In 2003 the Secret Service became part of the Department of Homeland Security
Website: www.SecretService.gov.
Referenced by...Trump parting gift - Secret Service protection to family, friends (2021-Sep-17)
Trump profits from Secret Service (2020-Sep-20)
Secretary of State
In the federal government, the member of the president's cabinet who is the head of the Department of State (DOS).
In state governments, the person responsible for certain functions. Perhaps the most important function managed by the secretary of state is elections.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
The Securities and Exchange Commission is a government agency that regulates the stock market and other securities in order to protect investors from fraudulent practices. It is comprised of five commissioners, appointed by the president and approved by the Senate.
For example, SEC rules prohibit insider trading of stocks - in which someone (such as a company executive) uses confidential information to buy or sell a stock before the public has access to that information.
For more, visit www.SEC.gov.
Selective Service
(Coming)
Small Business Administration (SBA)
The Small Business Administration helps American small businesses obtain loans, counseling, and other types of assistance.
Website: www.SBA.gov.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
The government independent agency that administers the Social Security program.
Website: www.SSA.gov.
Referenced by...Biden fires Trump's Social Security head (2021-Jul-10)
Supercommittee
See Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction
Supreme Court (SCOTUS)
As specified by the Constitution, the United States' government consists of three branches...
o Executive (President): Approves and enforces laws
o Judicial: Determines if a law violates any provision of the Constitution.
The judicial branch consists of the U.S. federal court system. The Supreme Court is highest court in that system. It consists of nine justices (judges) . Justices are appointed by the president, and must be confirmed by the Senate.
When a lower court's decision is appealed to the Supreme Court, the court may...
o Agree to hear the appeal, in which case the Supreme Court will decide the final outcome.
For a list of Supreme Court justices - present and past - click here.
For a list of Supreme Court decisions that Lobby99 has discussed, click here.
Website: www.SupremeCourt.gov.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Website: www.TSA.gov.
Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA)
The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration provides independent oversight of IRS activities - including the prevention and detection of fraud, waste, and abuse within the IRS and related entities. (www.Treasury.gov/tigta)
U.S. Agency for Gobal Media (USAGM)
An independent agency of the U.S. government that oversees news and information broadcast internationally by the United States.
Its networks include:
o Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty
o Radio Free Asia
o Middle East Broadcasting Networks
o Office of Cuba Broadcasting
Website: www.USAGM.gov
Referenced by...From day 1 Biden lessens Trump influence (2021-Jan-20)
U.S. Board on Geographic Names
The U.S. Board on Geographic Names is responsible for ensuring that geographic names in the United States are consistent throughout the government.
Consistent naming eliminates misunderstanding and allows various government agencies to work together more easily.
It is part of the Department of the Interior, and was created in 1890 by an executive order from President William Harrison.
Website: geonames.usgs.gov
U.S. Copyright Office
(Coming)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for processing travelers and goods entering the country.
It was known as the U.S. Customs Service until 2003, when it was merged with parts of other agencies.
Website: www.CBP.gov.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
Federal agency primarily responsible for the conservation and management of wildlife and habitats.
It is a bureau of the Department of the Interior (DOI).
Website: www.FWS.gov.
U.S. Forest Service
Agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that manages and protects national forests and grasslands in the United States.
Website: www.fs.fed.us
U.S. Mission to the United Nations
Website: usun.state.gov.
U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
Official organization that delivers mail in the United States.
Though regulated as a federal agency, the USPS effectively is a corporation whose operations are funded by its sales. It receives virtually no federal funding (other than funding for a few specific purposes).
For more, read our discussion of the US Postal Service.
Website: www.USPS.com.
U.S. Sentencing Commission (USSC)
Website: www.ussc.gov.
U.S. Trade Representative
Website: www.USTR.gov.
United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Government agency that provides aid and development assistance to other countries.
It was created in 1961 by an executive order by President John F. Kennedy.
Website: www.USAID.gov.
Referenced by...Agency investigating AIDS and Ebola viruses to shut down (2019-Oct-30)
USPS: Board of Governers
Panel that oversees the policies and operations of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). It was created by the 1970 Postal Reorganization Act.
The board is made up of 11 members...
No more than 5 of the board's 9 governors may belong to the same political party.
The board's governors are nominated by the President, and require Senate approval. The board selects (and can remove) the Postmaster General.
Website: About.USPS.com
USPS: Postmaster General
Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
USPS: Sectional Center Facility (SCF)
A mail processing and distribution center that serves a designated geographical area (defined by one or more three-digit ZIP Code prefixes).
Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
Part of the Department of Labor (DOL) created by the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Among the laws enforced by the WHD are those enacted in the FLSA, including...
Website: www.dol.gov/whd
Walter Reed Medical Center
(Coming)
White House Chief of Staff
(Coming)