FR 2021-02163

The document from the Federal Register announces a closed meeting organized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This meeting involves the Disease, Disability, and Injury Prevention and Control Special Emphasis Panel and is scheduled for April 28, 2021, via teleconference. It will run from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The primary goal of the meeting is to review and evaluate grant applications that contain sensitive information, such as trade secrets and personal data.

Summary of the Document

The meeting will be closed to the public to protect sensitive information contained within the grant applications. Such information includes confidential trade secrets, commercial property, and personal details linked to these grants. By keeping the meeting private, the CDC aims to prevent any unwarranted invasion of privacy and unauthorized disclosure of confidential material.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Some issues may arise from the decision to close this meeting to the public, primarily concerning transparency. Because grant applications can involve substantial public funds, the public might have a vested interest in understanding how decisions are made. The absence of a detailed explanation about measures to safeguard the sensitive information discussed could lead to concerns over privacy and confidentiality.

The document is laced with legal jargon and references to U.S. statutory provisions, such as "pursuant to Public Law 92-463" and "sections 552b(c)(4) and 552b(c)(6), Title 5 U.S.C.," which could be challenging for laypersons to understand without further clarification. Additionally, the absence of an abstract leaves the reader without a concise overview, potentially hindering comprehension of the document’s purpose.

The contact information provided is functional but limited. With only a phone number and an email, accessibility might be restricted for stakeholders who might need alternative methods to reach out or additional context.

Impact on the Public

For the broader public, the closed nature of the meeting may limit immediate transparency but is necessary for protecting sensitive information linked to important public health initiatives. The CDC's decision reflects a balance between privacy and transparency, ensuring confidentiality while potentially challenging public scrutiny.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For applicants involved in the grant process, the closed meeting is likely a positive measure, ensuring their confidential information is not indiscriminately disclosed. It protects intellectual property and personal data, providing a secure environment for discussions affecting their grants.

On the other hand, certain stakeholders, like transparency advocates, might perceive this as a negative impact due to its closed format. They might feel excluded from critical discussions, especially those involving public funds and significant health policies.

In summary, while the closed meeting safeguards sensitive information, it raises concerns about transparency and accessibility. Balancing these aspects is crucial for maintaining public trust and confidence in public health decision-making processes.