FR 2024-31778

The document at hand is a notice from the Department of Justice (DOJ), specifically from the Office on Violence Against Women. It seeks public comments on a proposed extension for an information collection related to the Engaging Men and Youth Program. This initiative supports efforts to prevent violence against women and girls by actively involving boys and men in the solution. The notice outlines the logistics of collecting semiannual progress reports from about eight grantees involved in the program, emphasizing the need for public feedback on the initiative by February 10, 2025.

General Summary

The DOJ is requesting an extension of an already approved information collection procedure under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Grantees from the Engaging Men and Youth Program, approximately eight in number, are required to provide detailed progress reports twice a year. This is part of the department's broader strategy to engage community partners in efforts against gender-based violence. The department encourages stakeholders and the general public to review and comment on the efficacy, necessity, and design of this data collection process.

Significant Issues and Concerns

There are several potential issues with the document. Although it mentions that the review process has an estimated cost of $9 to the federal government, it provides no detailed explanation of what this amount covers. A clearer cost breakdown would be beneficial, as it can help taxpayers understand how resources are utilized.

The language used to describe eligible grantees is somewhat complicated, listing various nonprofit and governmental entities. Simplifying this language could help readers understand which types of organizations are eligible to participate.

Moreover, the document employs bureaucratic jargon, such as "PRA authorization" and "ICR," without providing definitions or sufficient context. This could be confusing for individuals unfamiliar with government documentation. Additionally, the text repeats information about the total annual hour burden, which may be an editorial oversight that could confuse readers.

Potential Impacts on the Public

Broadly speaking, the document's aims align with efforts to foster community involvement in reducing gender-based violence. For the general public, the initiative may represent a positive step toward holistic community safety and violence reduction. However, the use of complex bureaucratic language can be a barrier to participation, possibly discouraging public commentary and engagement.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders involved directly with the Engaging Men and Youth Program, such as nonprofit organizations and community service providers, this document indicates continued government support and active engagement in combating violence. It potentially offers continued financial and structural resources, which is beneficial. However, the restricted eligibility criteria might limit participation to certain types of organizations, possibly excluding other entities that could effectively contribute to the initiative's goals.

Overall, while the notice promotes an important cause, better clarity and transparency could enhance public understanding and engagement. Improved communication might encourage wider participation from various sectors in this valuable government program.