Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested; FOIAXpress/FOIA Public Access Link
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Department of Justice wants to know what people think about a new computer system that helps them share important papers with the public. They believe answering their questions will only take a few minutes, and they're hoping people will share their thoughts before March 8, 2021.
Summary AI
The Department of Justice (DOJ), specifically the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), is seeking public feedback on a new information collection process. This initiative involves using the FOIAXpress Public Access Link to electronically communicate and deliver records to the public. They estimate approximately 33,984 responses yearly, with each response taking about three minutes, resulting in 1,699 total annual burden hours. Public comments are welcome until March 8, 2021, regarding the necessity and efficiency of this collection method.
Abstract
The Department of Justice (DOJ), Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), will be submitting the following information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register introduces a proposal by the Department of Justice (DOJ), specifically through the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), to collect information using a digital platform known as the FOIAXpress Public Access Link. This initiative is geared towards improving communication with the public by enabling electronic submission and delivery of requested records. The DOJ is actively seeking public feedback on this new collection method and has opened a public comment period until March 8, 2021.
Summary of the Document
The DOJ plans to streamline how public requests for information are handled by using the FOIAXpress Public Access Link. This electronic system is designed to efficiently process Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests sent to the EOIR. It's estimated that nearly 34,000 requests will be processed annually, with each taking an average of three minutes to complete. This translates to approximately 1,699 hours of collective time spent by the public annually on these requests.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One potential concern is the lack of detailed cost estimates associated with implementing and maintaining this new information collection system. Without this, it might be difficult for stakeholders to fully assess whether this initiative represents prudent fiscal management or could lead to increased spending.
The document also does not explicitly address how different communities might be affected, which could be significant if certain groups face challenges in accessing digital services compared to others. Additionally, the language used for potential commenters is somewhat technical and may require simplification to encourage broader public participation.
The estimated burden of "3 minutes per response" is vaguely defined, which could cause confusion. Clarity is needed to understand whether these three minutes include all stages of form submission or merely the filling out of the form.
Furthermore, the document does not detail how the confidentiality of submitted information will be ensured, which is a vital consideration for both privacy advocates and individuals concerned about their personal data.
Impact on the Public and Stakeholders
Broadly, this initiative could have a significant positive impact by making it easier and faster for the public to access requested information, reflecting a move towards more modern and efficient public service delivery. However, the positive impacts could be limited if issues related to access equality, understanding of the system, or confidentiality of data are not adequately addressed.
For specific stakeholders, such as legal professionals or immigration advocates, this new system could reduce administrative bottlenecks and lead to quicker access to essential records, thereby supporting their work effectively. Conversely, individuals and small organizations with limited digital access or literacy might find the transition challenging, highlighting a potential negative impact on these groups.
Overall, while the proposed system signifies a step forward in public information processing, careful consideration of the issues outlined will be crucial to ensure its successful implementation and equitable benefits for all stakeholders.
Issues
• The document does not provide a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs associated with the information collection, which might be relevant to evaluate potential wasteful spending.
• There is no mention of any particular organizations or individuals being favored; however, the impact on different community groups isn't discussed, which might be an area of concern if disparities exist.
• The language around public addressing comments (e.g., 'Find this particular information collection by selecting...' and 'contact Melody Braswell...') may be complex and could be simplified for broader public understanding.
• The section on 'An estimate of the total public burden' could provide a clearer context on what constitutes the '3 minutes per response' - for instance, it should clarify if this includes all steps in the submission process or just the form completion.
• There is a lack of clarity regarding the confidentiality of information provided in the responses, which might be relevant for privacy considerations concerning public and affected agencies.