The document announces the immediate implementation of a presidential executive order requiring a comprehensive review and realignment of United States foreign aid programs managed by USAID. Effective January 24, 2025, USAID is pausing all obligations and sub-obligations of funding under Development Objective Agreements (DOAGs) for foreign assistance programs, as defined under Title III accounts, excluding Operating Expenses and the Capital Investment Fund (Title II). All USAID Contracting and Agreement Officers are instructed to halt modifications, extensions, and renewals of existing awards, and must issue stop-work orders or otherwise suspend relevant awards as appropriate. New awards or solicitations for funding are also prohibited until each activity has been evaluated for consistency with the President’s policy objectives.
The notice outlines specific, limited waivers authorized by the Secretary of State, such as for emergency food assistance, certain administrative expenses, previously incurred legitimate expenses, and cases by approval of the Director of Foreign Assistance. The process for these waivers and the overall review framework will be developed by the Department of State’s Policy Planning Staff within 30 days, with the entire review to conclude within 85 days from the issuance date. The goal is to ensure all foreign assistance aligns with President Trump’s foreign policy agenda. Questions regarding the notice are to be directed to the relevant Contracting or Agreement Officer.
