The Biden administration’s first 100 days were largely focused on addressing the COVID-19 crisis—accelerating vaccine distribution and stabilizing public health. With that initial phase now behind him, President Biden has begun advancing broader policy priorities that span the economy, environment, technology, healthcare, and taxation.
Priority: Putting the Pandemic Behind Us
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), passed in March 2021, provided $1.9 trillion in stimulus focused on:
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Direct stimulus checks
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Expanded unemployment and paid leave
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Emergency small business relief
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Support for state/local governments
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Vaccine distribution and testing
What to Watch:
While the pandemic will eventually recede, its economic and societal impacts will linger. Forward-looking businesses are adapting to post-pandemic realities—rethinking how they manage employees, serve customers, and ensure resilience amid future disruptions.
Priority: Doing Well by Doing Good
The administration has embraced Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities, starting with climate action:
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Rejoining the Paris Agreement
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Proposing a $2T Clean Energy Revolution
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Eliminating fossil fuel emissions from power by 2035
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Promoting EV infrastructure, zero-emission transit, and eco-building standards
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Calling for a 50–52% emissions reduction by 2030 (vs. 2005 levels)
Regulatory Focus:
The SEC’s Climate & ESG Task Force is enhancing disclosure requirements for environmental, diversity, and governance practices.
What to Watch:
Public and investor expectations around ESG are growing. Forward-thinking companies are embedding sustainability, equity, and purpose into core operations—and those that do so effectively may see higher profitability and lower risk.
Priority: Innovation in the Spotlight
The pandemic underscored America’s reliance on technology. The Biden administration acknowledges this while signaling increased oversight of Big Tech—particularly around:
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Antitrust enforcement
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Cybersecurity protections
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Data privacy regulation
What to Watch:
CFOs are doubling down on digital transformation, but balancing tech investment with regulatory compliance will be critical.
📊 BDO Survey Highlights:
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55% plan to increase R&D spending
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39% accelerated digital investments due to the pandemic
Priority: Defining “Bidencare”
While sweeping healthcare reform is unlikely, the Biden administration is working to strengthen the Affordable Care Act (ACA):
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Expanding enrollment and subsidies
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Capping healthcare premiums at 8.5% of income
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Exploring a public option
What to Watch:
Employers should expect rising interest in expanded care access (especially mental health and telehealth) as employee well-being becomes a business imperative.
Priority: Building Back Better
The American Jobs Plan outlines the administration’s infrastructure vision, including:
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Roads, bridges, airports, transit
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Electric vehicle (EV) charging networks
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Broadband expansion and clean water
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Modernizing schools and housing
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Investments in R&D and workforce training
What to Watch:
Infrastructure spending could provide a major boost to productivity and supply chain stability. Projects with environmental and equity components will likely take priority.
Priority: Tax Increases on the Table
To fund investments, the Biden administration has proposed several tax changes:
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Raising the corporate tax rate from 21% to 28%
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Increasing individual tax rates on those earning over $400,000
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Enhancing GILTI and other international tax rules
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Reinstating elements of the corporate AMT
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Introducing surcharges and limiting deductions
What to Watch:
Per BDO’s 2021 Tax Outlook Survey:
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92% of tax execs expect a corporate rate hike
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Priorities include income tax, international tax, and payroll adjustments
The midterms may dictate the legislative window for major tax reform. Until then, targeted changes are possible via reconciliation.
Priority: Regulating Wall Street
Appointing Gary Gensler (SEC) and Rohit Chopra (CFPB), the administration signaled a stricter approach to financial regulation. Expect:
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Increased enforcement
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Enhanced consumer protections
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Closer scrutiny of disclosure and compliance standards
What to Watch:
Robust compliance and data governance will become key differentiators for businesses, not just regulatory requirements.
Final Thoughts: The Role of Business in a Divided Climate
With midterm elections approaching and a polarized Congress, President Biden may face challenges pushing through all elements of his agenda. Businesses should prepare for rapid shifts, especially in ESG, innovation, infrastructure, and taxation.
Takeaway:
In moments of political gridlock, corporate leadership will play a pivotal role in driving progress. Businesses that align operations with policy shifts—and lead with purpose—can shape a more resilient and equitable economy.