PCAST’s structure and agenda will strongly influence who benefits from federal science and technology investments. If equity is centered, it could expand funding for inclusive research, strengthen public health data infrastructure, and improve access to technology-enabled care in underserved communities. Without intentional safeguards, however, emerging fields like AI and genomics risk widening health disparities by reinforcing existing data and representation gaps.
Executive Office of the President - White House Office
A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government. Executive orders have the force of law but must align with existing statutes and constitutional authority.
Who It Impacts: Federal agencies and employees, directing them on how to implement laws or carry out government functions. Executive orders can also influence businesses and individuals when they relate to issues like immigration, trade, or labor policies.
Who Is Not Impacted: Private citizens and businesses do not have to directly follow an executive order unless it leads to regulations or policies that apply to them. For example, an executive order directing federal agencies to increase renewable energy use does not mandate action from private companies, but it may influence policy shifts that eventually affect them.
Date Enacted
January 23, 2025
Last Updated
November 20, 2025
Policy Type
Research and Data
Education
Healthcare Delivery, Services & Quality
Public Health
Health and Disability
Immigrant Health
LGBTQI+ Health
Summary
This executive order reestablishes the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) to guide federal policy on emerging technologies, scientific research, and innovation. Its recommendations will shape national science priorities, with direct implications for health equity in research funding, data systems, and access to technology-driven care.
Impact Analysis
Legal Challenges
N/A
Take Institutional Action
Health systems, academic institutions, and public health agencies can take several steps to ensure that PCAST’s work advances health equity. Institutions should monitor PCAST’s reports and public meetings to identify opportunities to submit comments or evidence highlighting the importance of equitable technology adoption.
Research institutions can prioritize inclusive design and diversify participation in federally funded studies to ensure that marginalized communities are represented in emerging data and innovation systems.
Health systems can align with federal science priorities by investing in workforce training on digital inclusion, AI ethics, and culturally competent technology implementation.
Finally, institutions should communicate how inclusive research and equitable data practices strengthen innovation and health outcomes, framing equity as a scientific and economic imperative.
Associated or Derivative Policies
Associated: Federal innovation and AI policy directives, including executive orders on Artificial Intelligence and Data Governance (2025).
Builds on Executive Order 14007 (2021), which previously established PCAST under a health equity and STEM education framework.
Policy Prior to 2025
PCAST last operated under Executive Order 14007 (January 27, 2021), focusing on scientific integrity, pandemic response, and equitable STEM workforce development. The 2025 order renews this structure but shifts emphasis toward emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and innovation strategy.
Additional Resources
White House Office of Science and Technology Policy – PCAST Reports Archive https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/pcast/ and https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/administration/eop/ostp/pcast/docsreports/archives
Health Equity Working Group for Artificial Intelligence - AAMC
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