FR 2021-01890

This document is a notice from the Border Security Technology Consortium (BSTC), published in the Federal Register, explaining recent changes in its membership as of January 12, 2021. This notice also serves as an update concerning filings with the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission under the National Cooperative Research and Production Act of 1993. The act aims to manage antitrust risks by limiting plaintiffs to claiming only actual damages under certain circumstances related to cooperative ventures like BSTC.

General Summary

The BSTC's announcement is significant in that it formally notes the inclusion of new companies into their consortium and the departure of others. Companies such as Carahsoft Technology Corporation and STRAX Intelligence Group were added, while organizations like Bruker Detection Corporation and CUBRC, Inc. have left. The notice affirms that membership is still open and ongoing updates about member changes will be submitted by the consortium.

Significant Issues or Concerns

1. Lack of Transparency on Activities: The document does not detail the specific activities or projects pursued by the BSTC, which can limit public understanding of the consortium’s goals and achievements.

2. Unclear Membership Changes: There is no explicit explanation as to why certain companies have joined or departed from the consortium. Without this context, stakeholders might question the reasons or implications behind these membership adjustments.

3. Complex Legal References: The mention of legal codes and references to the Federal Register may be inaccessible to a general audience. Understanding the legal context requires knowledge that not everyone possesses, possibly leading to misinterpretations.

4. Impacts on Research and Development: The notice lacks specifics concerning the impact that the changes in membership could have on research and development within border security technology. This missing detail is crucial for appreciating the potential advancements or setbacks resulting from such changes.

5. Unclear Membership Process: Although membership is reportedly open, the notice does not include information on how an organization can become a consortium member. Transparency in the membership process is essential for fairness and inclusivity.

Public and Stakeholder Impacts

For the general public, understanding and trust in how border security technology is being developed and maintained are imperative. Documents like this one should ideally highlight how these changes contribute to national security and address antitrust concerns.

For stakeholders directly involved or interested in becoming involved with the BSTC, the lack of information regarding membership processes and the reasons for current changes might present challenges. Existing and prospective members may be uncertain about the strategic direction or benefits of participation.

In conclusion, while the notice fulfills its procedural role in informing legal authorities and the public of changes in the consortium's composition, it leaves several questions unanswered for those interested in the broader implications and operations of the BSTC. For a more effective communication strategy, future notices might benefit from additional context and explanations tailored to a non-expert audience.