Halting TikTok’s ban back 75 days
This is likely the most relevant one for high schoolers. When TikTok stopped functioning on Jan. 19, many teens turned to other media apps like SnapChat to remark on the ban. It’s worth noting though that this order prevents the U.S. attorney general from taking action against the app. This does not mean that TikTok is safe forever; in fact, the U.S. will likely keep pushing for the app to be banned
The U.S. will no longer allow birthright citizenship
This one comes as a particular shock because it would require changing an entire amendment. Beisher mentioned that while an EO has a lot of power this “EO has to operate inside a currently existing law or [in] the Constitution, and this one seems to fly directly in the face or contradict the Constitution.”
This is something that theoretically can be done, but Beisher says it’s important for students to understand that this would take a while to pass. That mainly has to do with the strong opposing arguments that Trump will have to face. Nevertheless, this order has certainly sparked new fears throughout immigrant populations nationwide. Beisher notes though, that the best thing an informed person can do is to stay on top of the news and always gather the full story.
The departments of the government will only recognize two genders: male and female
This particular order has striked a new sense of fear in the LGBTQ+ community, as many are claiming that is not a step to gaining more representation. This does not mean that it is required for people or businesses to only recognize two genders. Those laws are more specific for each state. This simply means that there will no longer be an “other” option “on passports, visas, Global Entry cards and all other forms and documents, and in all programs and communications.”
The U.S. will pull out of the World Health Organization (WHO)
What makes this particular order important, is the fact that America is one of WHO’s top financial investors. This would mean that WHO might need to cut back on certain goals and efforts, as they will have a smaller budget. However, this will not be immediate. If Trump gets approval from Congress, the U.S. still needs to send in a one year notice and pay the organization’s financial dues for the year. Overall though, this impact might not be centered at America, but its impact affects a larger, global population that heavily relies on the services given from WHO.
The U.S. will pull out of the Paris climate agreement
The agreement’s goal is to lower carbon emissions and keep the Earth’s temperature from going over 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit. The U.S. is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, so its commitment to the agreement meant a lot. This action will not be immediate though. Trump first needs to get approval from Congress, give a one year notice that he is leaving the Paris accord and then pay the yearly dues that the U.S. owns. Overall, Generation Z (Gen Z) has been known to be against climate change, as seven out of 10 Gen Zers felt anxious the last time they saw content online about climate change.
