In Executive Order 13980, the President outlines measures to prevent Americans from being unfairly punished for breaking regulations they didn't know existed. It emphasizes that laws should be clear and that government agencies must specify when breaking a regulation could lead to criminal charges. The order suggests focusing criminal enforcement on those who knowingly break laws, instead of penalizing people for unintentional mistakes. It also encourages agencies to consider administrative or civil actions instead of criminal charges for certain regulatory offenses.
Simple Explanation
Imagine if you got in trouble for breaking a rule you didn't know about. The President made a new rule to make sure that when other rules could get someone in big trouble, like going to jail, they are explained more clearly so people know what they can do or can't do.