Overview
Title
Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The FERC wants to change how they handle some work files about people asking to get back vacation days they lost. They promise to keep this information safe on computers, and people can ask questions or give feedback about these changes.
Summary AI
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), part of the Department of Energy, announced changes to their system of records related to employee requests for restoring lost annual leave. This notice, published in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, outlines modifications to routine uses of these records to respond to data breaches and other necessary disclosures. Individuals can comment on these changes within 30 days of publication, and further details are provided on how to access these records or contest them. The updated system is stored electronically, with strict access controls to ensure data security.
Abstract
In accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, all agencies are required to publish in the Federal Register a notice of their system of records. Notice is hereby given that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is publishing a notice of modifications to an existing FERC system of records titled "Commission Restoration of Annual Leave Request Files (FERC--28)".
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has published a notice regarding updates to its system of records, specifically those related to employee requests for restoring lost annual leave. This update is part of FERC’s compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974, which mandates federal agencies to keep the public informed about how personal records are maintained and used. The changes aim to enhance the handling of data breaches and improve the transparency of routine use disclosures.
General Summary
The document details modifications to an existing system used by FERC to manage data concerning employee leave restoration requests. The update includes new routine uses of these records, predominantly focusing on data breach responses. This notice allows the public a 30-day period to comment, after which the proposed changes will take effect. FERC emphasizes that records are electronically stored with strict access controls and security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One of the key concerns is the lack of detailed information regarding the updates to routine uses. While the document mentions these updates, it does not elaborate on what they involve or how they will specifically affect data handling. This lack of clarity can understandably lead to misunderstandings or an unintended lack of transparency about personal data use.
Moreover, there is an error in the contact information, with "Washington, 7DC" incorrectly listed, which could cause confusion for individuals seeking more information. Additionally, the language within the document seems highly technical and may not be easily understood by all readers, especially those unfamiliar with legal and privacy regulation terminology.
Impact on the Public
Broadly, this document influences how personal data concerning leave restoration requests is managed, impacting FERC employees directly. By updating security and addressing data breaches, the changes aim to safeguard personal information better, which is a crucial concern for employees.
For privacy-conscious individuals, the document might raise concerns about transparency and control over their information, given the broad scope of potential data disclosures outlined as routine uses. The public might also feel apprehension if they find it difficult to understand how these changes affect them due to the complex language used.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For FERC employees and their representatives, the modifications could result in a more secure handling of sensitive information, reducing risks associated with data breaches. However, stakeholders such as privacy advocates may view the lack of detail on routine uses critically, arguing for greater transparency and specificity in how personal record use is managed.
Moreover, internal FERC administration or legal teams might need to engage with employees or their representatives to clarify these updates, ensuring that all stakeholders understand the implications for data use and management.
Overall, while the document signifies a step towards improved privacy and data security protocols, clearer communication of updates and potential impacts would greatly benefit all parties involved.
Issues
• The document mentions updated routine uses for records, but it does not specify what the updates entail or which specific new routine uses have been added. This lack of detail could lead to misunderstandings or lack of awareness about how personal data might be used.
• The contact information provided for more information includes an incorrect street name in the address for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. It lists 'Washington, 7DC' instead of 'Washington, DC'.
• The language could be seen as overly complex and bureaucratic, particularly for those unfamiliar with the specific terminologies and references used within the Federal Register and privacy regulations.
• The document specifies multiple uses for data disclosure in routine uses but may not clearly indicate to individuals how they can limit or be informed about these disclosures.
• The procedures for accessing and contesting records refer back to existing sections ('See Records Access procedures') without providing specific guidance in this document, potentially leading to confusion if the referenced procedures are not easily accessible.
• The document implies electronic record security measures are in place but does not detail any contingency planning or additional security protocols beyond 'Single Sign-On and Multi-Factor Authentication Solution' and 'role based access'.