Executive Order 13233 Further Implementation of the Presidential Records Act

President Bush recently signed Executive Order 13233 allowing/or the release of a select category of presidential records dealing with staff advice to the president, an important group of records for those who study presidential decision making. The order provides such records can he made public only after the incumbent and former presidents agree on their release. The order was given a cold reception from individuals who use materials in presidential libraries and the organizations representing those with interests in records, as it will be an additional hurdle for researchers to surmount. Supporters and critics alike expect the courts to resolve the issues of presidential privilege raised by the order.