Topic 4.5 Executive (aka, "cabinet level") Departments

Major Functions/Responsibilities

Agriculture

1889. Oversees national forest & conservation efforts, responsible for the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products, and attempts to provide foreign markets for American agriculture.

Commerce

1903. Concerned with creating the conditions for economic growth and opportunity. It’s main purpose is to create jobs, promote economic growth, encourage sustainable development, and block harmful trade practices of other nations.

Defense

1947. Manages the nation’s military and is headquartered at the Pentagon

Education

1979. Manages federal student aid programs, monitors academic performance nationwide, and administers federal education legislation like the No Child Left Behind Act.

Energy

1977. Manages the nation’s nuclear weapons and energy, developed energy policies, and conducts energy research.

Health and Human Services

1953. Conducts heath research, manages efforts to prevent disease, manages Medicare and Medicaid, and pursues efforts to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans

Homeland Security

2002. Oversees a wide range of federal agencies to help them coordinate plans to confront national emergencies and threats to national security.

Housing and Urban Development

1965. Strives to increase domestic home ownership and improve access to affordable housing that is free of discrimination.

Interior

1849. Manages conservation efforts, responsible use of public lands, the national parks system, and environmental protection.

Justice

1870. Responsible for the enforcement of federal law by investigating alleged criminal wrongdoing, prosecuting suspected offenders in court, running the federal prison system, and reviewing the actions of local law enforcement officials.

Labor

1913. Looks out for “job seekers, wage earners, and retirees” by administering federal labor laws and providing services like connecting potential employers to unemployed workers.

State

1789. Advises the President on foreign policy and is responsible for American diplomatic relationships with nations around the world. This Department negotiates treaties and agreements with foreign nations and represents the United States at the United Nations

Transportation

1966. Manages national transportation infrastructure like highways, air traffic, and railways.

Treasury

1789. Manages federal finances, collects taxes, produces stamps, and provides government advice on matters of economic policy.

Veterans Affairs

1988. Provides for the healthcare, benefits, and memorial service needs of veterans.