FR 2021-02352

The document released by the Surface Transportation Board, dated February 4, 2021, discusses a request from Iowa State University to access confidential data from the Board's 1992-2018 Unmasked Carload Waybill Sample. This request is something that stakeholders, such as railroad companies and shippers, need to be aware of because the data in question contains sensitive information that directly pertains to their operations.

Summary of the Document

The Surface Transportation Board, which regulates railroads in the United States, has issued a public notice regarding a data request from Iowa State University. The university seeks access to a detailed dataset containing nearly three decades of information about rail carloads, including potentially sensitive details about railroads and shippers. The waybill data is historically confidential, which is why the Board has implemented a process for objections. Interested parties have 14 days from the notice publication date to file objections if they believe the release of such data may have adverse effects.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One notable issue is the lack of a concise abstract or clearly defined action stated in the metadata. This lack of detailed metadata may hinder understanding of the document's broader implications. Additionally, while the contact information is provided, it includes just a phone number. This could limit accessibility, as some might prefer communication through digital means like email. Moreover, the document references federal regulations (49 CFR 1244.9) without offering additional context for the general public, which might be unfamiliar with regulatory language.

Impact on the General Public

For the general public, particularly those not entrenched in the sectors of transportation and logistics, this document may seem obscure. However, the manner in which such data is released can have broader implications for data privacy standards and the transparency of corporate and governmental operations. It raises considerations about how data is shared between public institutions and universities and the implications thereof in terms of competitive business practices.

Impact on Stakeholders

For specific stakeholders, like railroad companies and shippers, the implications are more direct. The release of such data could affect competitive dynamics within the industry. Companies might be concerned about the data revealing business operations or market strategies. Conversely, Iowa State University and similar educational institutions would likely see this potential data access as beneficial for conducting in-depth research that could drive advancements within the logistics and transportation sectors.

The document underscores the ongoing balance between data transparency and confidentiality, with particular focus on the academic use of industry information. The existing systems for contesting data releases offer a framework for addressing different stakeholder concerns, but it also highlights the need for clearer communication regarding the motivations and potential outcomes of such disclosures.