FR 2024-29008

The document announces a closed meeting organized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) scheduled for April 29-30, 2025. This meeting involves the Disease, Disability, and Injury Prevention and Control Special Emphasis Panel. Its primary purpose is to review and evaluate grant applications aimed at preventing child sexual abuse and problematic sexual behavior among youth. Importantly, it notes that the meeting will be conducted via web conference and remain closed to the public to protect sensitive and confidential information related to the grant discussions.

Summary of the Document

The meeting is planned as part of the CDC's efforts to evaluate programs and policies designed to address significant social issues involving youth. By focusing on preventing child sexual abuse and problematic behavior, the CDC aims to support and fund programs that could make a meaningful difference in these sensitive areas.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several issues arise from the content and context of this notice:

1. Lack of Cost Information: The document does not provide any insights into the financial aspects of the meeting, such as the budget or any expected expenditures. Having such information would enable stakeholders and the public to understand better how resources are being allocated and whether the spending is justified.

2. Potential Favoritism: There is no mention of specific organizations or individuals who might benefit from the meeting's deliberations. While protecting privacy is important, a lack of transparency might raise concerns about favoritism or inequitable distribution of grant funds.

3. Complex Legal Language: The document references certain legal provisions like "Public Law 92-463" and "Title 5 U.S.C." which, without further explanation, might be unclear to laypersons. This could create barriers in understanding the legal grounds and authority under which such meetings are conducted.

4. Lack of Evaluation Criteria: No detailed information is provided about the criteria or the process through which the grant applications will be evaluated. Transparency in the evaluation process would help the public and potential applicants understand what standards are being applied and how decisions are made.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the direct impact might seem minimal, given that the meeting is closed and involves internal discussions about grant applications. However, the indirect outcomes could be substantial if effective programs are identified and funded. Successfully funded programs can lead to improved strategies for preventing sexual abuse and fostering safer environments for youth, ultimately benefiting society at large.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved in policy development or implementation related to child safety and public health, the outcomes of this meeting are crucial. Organizations submitting grant applications might experience positive impacts if they receive funding to expand or implement their programs. Conversely, these stakeholders might face challenges if the lack of clarity concerning evaluation criteria leads to misaligned efforts or unsuccessful applications.

Moreover, for professional participants such as legal experts or policymakers monitoring the process, transparency and clarity are essential components. Their work, often involving oversight and guidance, relies significantly on clear, accessible documentation. Lack of detailed information may hinder their ability to effectively analyze or support the meeting outcomes.

Overall, while the closed nature of the meeting is understandable, considering the sensitivity of the subject matter, a balance between confidentiality and transparency remains crucial in maintaining public trust and accountability.