Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The National Archives wants to keep using three forms where people can ask to take pictures at their buildings, use their space for events, or ask to be listed as a helper for research work. They are asking people to share ideas on how to make these forms better by February 14, 2025.
Summary AI
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has requested approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to continue using three information collections. These collections allow people to: (1) request permission to film or photograph at NARA facilities for news purposes, (2) use NARA facilities for events, and (3) have their names placed on a list of independent researchers for freelance work in the Washington, DC, area. NARA is seeking public comments by February 14, 2025, on whether these collections are necessary and how they could be improved.
Abstract
We have submitted a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval to continue to use three currently approved information collections. People use the first information collection to request permission to film, photograph, or videotape at a NARA facility for news purposes. People use the second information collection to request permission to use NARA facilities for events in the Washington, DC, area, at a Federal records center, or at a Presidential library. People use the third information collection to request their name be placed on a list of independent researchers who perform freelance research for hire in the Washington, DC, area. We invite you to comment on the proposed information collections.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document titled "Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request" is a formal notice issued by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). It reveals NARA's intention to continue utilizing three specific information collections and seeks public input on these proposals.
Summary of the Document
NARA has put forward a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) seeking approval to persist with using three existing information collection methods. The first collection allows individuals to request permission to film, photograph, or videotape at NARA facilities for news reporting. The second collection pertains to using NARA facilities for events in the Washington, DC, area, at federal records centers, or at Presidential libraries. The third collection allows individuals to apply for inclusion on a list of independent researchers who offer freelance research services for hire in the Washington, DC, area. NARA invites public comments by February 14, 2025, to gauge the necessity and efficiency of these collections.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several issues arise from the document that may warrant further discussion. Firstly, the document lacks clarity on the total anticipated costs associated with implementing these information collections, which might hinder evaluations of potential financial inefficiency. Additionally, there is no mention of how NARA prevents potential conflicts of interest or favoritism, particularly in the listing of independent researchers.
The language used, such as "Presidential library facilities and grounds" and "Federal records centers," might be confusing for individuals unfamiliar with these terms, necessitating clearer explanations. There is also a lack of information on how personal data submitted through these collections is protected beyond their immediate purpose, which could raise privacy concerns among participants. Furthermore, the document suggests online methods for submitting comments but does not provide alternative options for those who may face technical barriers.
Impact on the Public
For the general public, the document serves as an invitation to participate in shaping how NARA manages its facility usage and research listings. The collections have implications for journalists, event organizers, and researchers, all of whom might benefit from improved or continued access to NARA facilities and services. However, without clear public understanding of the processes involved, or assurance on privacy safeguards, there might be hesitancy in participation.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Journalists and media organizations may perceive a positive impact as they could continue accessing NARA venues for news purposes, allowing for broader media coverage. Event organizers could benefit from using NARA spaces for events, although the document leaves room for concern about availability and criteria for usage. Independent researchers might see inclusion on the list as a business opportunity, yet the document does not specify how the selection process ensures fairness or avoids bias.
In conclusion, while NARA's intentions to continue these collections appear to offer various utilities, the lack of clarity on several fronts could impact their perception and effectiveness. The call for public comments is crucial, as it allows stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggestions, possibly leading to enhancements in these administrative processes.
Issues
• The document does not clearly outline the total anticipated cost to implement these information collection processes, which may make it difficult to assess for potentially wasteful spending.
• No potential conflict of interest or favoritism towards particular organizations or individuals is explicitly addressed, particularly regarding the selection and listing of independent researchers.
• Complex language such as 'Presidential library facilities and grounds' and 'Federal records centers' might not be immediately clear to those unfamiliar with these terms, which could be further clarified.
• The document doesn't specify how collected information is safeguarded or used beyond its immediate stated purpose, which might be a privacy concern.
• The document invites comments but does not provide alternative ways for public feedback if someone cannot use the specified online method.