Overview
Title
Information Collection Activities; Comment Request
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Bureau of Labor Statistics wants people's opinions on a form used for training programs with other countries. They want to make sure the form is easy to understand and not too much work to fill out.
Summary AI
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), part of the U.S. Department of Labor, is asking for public comments on its proposed extension of the "International Training Application" form. This request is part of an effort to reduce paperwork and make information collection easier for respondents. The BLS seeks feedback on the necessity, accuracy, and clarity of this information collection, and on methods to reduce the burden on those responding. This initiative is part of BLS's ongoing international training efforts, which involve seminars for statisticians and economists from around the world.
Abstract
The Department of Labor, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, conducts a pre-clearance consultation program to provide the general public and Federal agencies with an opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing collections of information in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This program helps to ensure that requested data can be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and financial resources) is minimized, collection instruments are clearly understood, and the impact of collection requirements on respondents can be properly assessed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is soliciting comments concerning the proposed extension of the "International Training Application." A copy of the proposed information collection request can be obtained by contacting the individual listed below in the Addresses section of this notice.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register serves as an announcement from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), part of the U.S. Department of Labor. It seeks public comments on the proposed extension of the "International Training Application" form. This is part of an ongoing effort to streamline information collection processes and reduce the burden on respondents, which is emphasized under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The BLS is particularly interested in gathering feedback on whether the information collected is necessary and useful, as well as suggestions on minimizing the burden of such collections.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several issues arise from the document that warrant closer scrutiny. Firstly, there is a notable absence of detailed cost estimates for the International Training Application program, which could lead to concerns regarding potential wasteful spending of public funds. Secondly, the document lacks specific information about how these international training activities benefit U.S. taxpayers, potentially raising questions about both the necessity and utility of this expenditure.
Furthermore, the document is written in technical language that may not be easily understood by the general public. Terms like "OMB clearance" and references to the "Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995" are not adequately explained, potentially limiting the accessibility of the information. Additionally, while the document mentions the use of electronic submissions to reduce respondent burden, it does not specify any other innovative or alternative methods which could further ease the process for respondents.
Impact on the Public
The document affects the public by providing an opportunity to give feedback on government procedures, theoretically allowing individuals and organizations to influence the efficiency and effectiveness of government data collection methods. However, the effectiveness of public input may be doubted due to the lack of clarity regarding how comments will be used to influence or change the current processes, potentially discouraging public participation.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Specific stakeholders, such as statisticians, economists, and other data users from both domestic and international institutions, may be directly impacted by the BLS's training programs. These seminars aim to enhance participants' abilities in collecting and analyzing labor statistics, which could lead to better-informed economic policies and decisions in their respective countries. On the other hand, U.S. taxpayers may question the allocation of resources if the benefits of such international programs to the U.S. are not clearly communicated or justified.
Overall, the call for comments represents an engagement opportunity, but the document’s technical nature and lack of detailed information might limit its effectiveness in generating meaningful public interaction. Without clear justifications and accessible language, both the public and stakeholders might view this as a missed opportunity for effective civic participation in governmental processes.
Issues
• The document does not provide detailed cost estimates for the International Training Application program, which could lead to concerns about potential wasteful spending.
• There is a lack of detailed information on how the international training benefits U.S. taxpayers, which might raise questions about the necessity and utility of the expenditure.
• The document uses technical language, such as 'OMB clearance' and 'Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995,' without adequate explanation, making it difficult for laypersons to fully understand the implications.
• The document does not specify alternative or innovative methods to reduce respondent burden beyond electronic submissions.
• The document does not address how comments submitted will specifically influence or change the current information collection practices, leading to potential concerns about the effectiveness of public input.