FR 2021-02488

The Census Bureau is notifying the public about an upcoming virtual meeting of the Census Scientific Advisory Committee (CSAC), scheduled for March 18 and 19, 2021. This meeting aims to address policy, research, and technical issues related to various Census Bureau programs, such as decennial, economic, and field operations. Held via the WebEx platform, the meeting is open to public participation, and there will be an opportunity for public comments on March 19. Individuals with detailed questions or statements are encouraged to submit them via email in advance.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several concerns arise from the document. Firstly, the notice does not mention any costs or budget allocation for the virtual meeting. This lack of fiscal transparency can pose challenges in evaluating potential inefficiencies or ineffective resource spending.

Another issue is the absence of information regarding the criteria or process for appointing CSAC members. Without clear guidelines, there may be suspicions of favoritism or a non-transparent selection process, which can undermine the committee's credibility.

Moreover, the mention of "last minute changes to the schedule are possible" introduces uncertainty that might cause confusion about the meeting's timing and structure. This ambiguity could be problematic for participants who plan to attend and engage in discussions.

While the meeting's technical details are provided, they might be challenging for individuals unfamiliar with video conferencing technology. The lack of mention of technical support or alternatives might dissuade some from participating.

Impact on the Public

The information contained in the notice is essential for individuals and organizations interested in the Census Bureau's work and decision-making processes. By involving the public, the meeting could foster increased transparency and understanding of census operations, potentially enhancing public trust.

However, the potential for lack of public access due to technical barriers or unexplained schedule changes might reduce public engagement. The public's ability to comment is a positive aspect, allowing for feedback and participation in government processes.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved with or affected by the Census Bureau's operations, such as policy-makers, researchers, and economists, the meeting provides a platform for discussing and influencing key topics. For them, access to the meeting could translate into greater opportunities to contribute their expertise.

Conversely, individuals and smaller organizations less familiar with digital platforms or those without advanced notice due to schedule changes might find it difficult to engage fully. This could result in a skewed representation of participant feedback, favoring those more technologically adept or informed.

In summary, while the notice contributes to governmental transparency by inviting public participation, addressing the issues of accessibility and member appointment transparency would enhance stakeholder engagement and trust.