[mrsmith]

Executive orders are "direction and guidance" for the departments. They interpret the laws and make it clear what is expected by the president in their execution.

They are not law in any way. Laws can only be made by the legislature (someone inform the courts of this one day please!).

[mnehring]

You are right, law is not the right word to use here, although they are legally binding. We need to be careful less everyone with any power create laws..