FR 2021-00888

The recent notice from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) informs the public about an upcoming meeting of the Joint Biomedical Laboratory Research and Development and Clinical Science Research and Development Services Scientific Merit Review Board (JBL/CS SMRB). This meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2021, and will be conducted online via WebEx. The meeting comprises two segments—a half-hour open session for public observation, and a subsequent 90-minute closed session focusing on the evaluation of research applications.

General Summary

The document's primary function is to announce the JBL/CS SMRB meeting, which serves as a platform for discussing VA research priorities and evaluating research proposals. The open session allows public interaction, particularly focused on sharing information about the scientific review process and the VA's research aims. The closed session is geared towards scrutinizing research applications, involving sensitive discussions on scientific merit, budget, and safety concerns, thus necessitating privacy.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One key issue with the notice is the lack of detail regarding the specific topics or research areas that will be addressed in the open session. This omission could cause uncertainty among potential participants about the discussion's focus and relevance to their interests.

Furthermore, while the procedure for public access to minutes from closed sessions is mentioned, the document fails to outline a clear process or criteria for handling these requests. This could result in confusion among stakeholders seeking this information.

The WebEx link provided includes technical details like meeting number, access code, and password, which might be cumbersome for individuals unfamiliar with WebEx, thereby potentially restricting ease of access.

Lastly, the document references certain legal provisions (Title 5 U.S.C. 552b(c)(6) and (9)(B)) without explanation. Individuals not versed in these statutes may find it challenging to understand their implications regarding privacy and the consequences of premature information disclosure.

Impact on the Public Broadly

The meeting notification illustrates the VA's commitment to transparency and engagement with the public concerning its research endeavors. By hosting an open session, the VA provides a unique opportunity for interested individuals to gain insight into the agency's priorities and processes. However, the technical and procedural complexities outlined might limit public participation and understanding.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Researchers and Academicians: This meeting can significantly affect researchers who have submitted or are considering submitting proposals for VA funding. The transparency in selection criteria can enhance proposal submissions' quality.

• Veterans and Advocacy Groups: Those representing veterans may see positive outcomes from such open sessions, as it highlights areas where research aligns with veterans' needs, potentially fostering collaboration and advocacy.

• General Public and Media: While transparency is valued, the brief open session and technical barriers could deter broader public engagement, limiting awareness and discussion of crucial biomedical and clinical research developments.

In conclusion, while this document indicates an effort by the VA to engage transparently with the public, it also highlights areas needing improved clarity and accessibility to maximize the meeting's benefits for all interested stakeholders.