Reading Room Document

Suggestion that the President issue an executive order requiring in substance that every contract, grant, or other financial arrangement entered into by the Federal Government contain an undertaking by the other party not to engage in discrimination

The document discusses the suggestion of issuing an executive order requiring every contract, grant, or financial arrangement entered into by the Federal Government to contain an undertaking not to engage in discrimination. The conclusion reached is that such a broad approach would create more problems than it would solve, as it may not have legal authority and would cover a vast scope of activities. The document presents questions about the legal authority of the President to issue such an order, the potential administrative problems, and the implications for programs like Medicare. It also raises the question of whether a more specific order would be more effective in addressing discrimination in federal programs and activities.

May 28, 1965