This executive order recites a need for a reliable source of energy for national security, manufacturing, transportation, agriculture and defense. It seeks to facilitate the identification, leasing, production and generation of domestic energy resources, including on federal lands. It also directs various federal agencies to identify and use regulations permitting emergency treatment under the Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act to accomplish these goals and to possibly reform regulations under federal acts to permit the development of energy needs.

This executive order has been challenged in court.