FR 2024-30887

The document under review is a notice from the Department of Defense (DoD), specifically the Office of the Secretary, regarding a new proposal submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The proposal seeks public comments on a system that allows individuals to access or authorize the release of their personal records maintained by federal agencies. This is part of an effort to streamline the process through the Creating Advanced Streamlined Electronic Services for Constituents Act of 2019 (CASES Act). By January 29, 2025, public feedback is encouraged, and the goal is to simplify record access and minimize delays using electronic forms. The information collection is targeted at current and former DoD employees and their authorized dependents.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from the document that merit attention. Firstly, there is an absence of a detailed cost analysis regarding the proposed information collection. This omission could make it difficult to evaluate whether the initiative would lead to any unnecessary government spending. Understanding the financial implications is crucial for public accountability and resource optimization.

Furthermore, the submission process for public comments utilizes terminology such as "PRAMain" and "Currently under 30-day Review," which may not be transparent to all individuals who are encouraged to comment. Offering clearer directions could enhance public participation.

There is also a potential ambiguity in the term "affected public." It is unclear whether it refers exclusively to direct dependents of DoD employees or possibly includes a broader range of individuals associated with DoD personnel. Clarity on this matter could help stakeholders better understand the scope and impact of the proposal.

The document employs technical and bureaucratic language, such as "OMB Control Number 0704-CASE" and "Alternate OSD Federal Register Liaison Officer," which might not be comprehensible to a general audience. Simplifying language or providing explanations could improve public understanding and engagement.

Finally, the document omits any mention of how the feedback received during the comment period will be handled or whether it will affect the implementation process. This lack of information may raise concerns regarding transparency and the genuineness of the call for public comments.

Impact on the Public

The proposal, if implemented as intended, could have several impacts on the public. For the general public, particularly those who seek access to personal records held by federal agencies, it offers the promise of a more streamlined, digital process. This is likely to make it more convenient and faster for individuals to manage their personal information.

For specific stakeholders, such as current and former DoD employees and their authorized dependents, the potential benefits are clear. These groups would experience significantly reduced delays and greater ease in addressing inquiries related to their personal records. However, this positive outlook depends heavily on effective implementation and addressing the issues highlighted.

Conclusion

The notice from the DoD signals an important step toward modernizing how individuals request access to their personal records from federal agencies. While the promise of streamlined services is promising, the success of this initiative heavily relies on clear communication, transparent processes, and addressing potential concerns highlighted by the public. It remains to be seen how the DoD will integrate public feedback and clarify ambiguous areas to ensure effective and beneficial outcomes for all.