Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Objections From the Section 232 National Security Adjustments of Imports of Steel and Aluminum
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Department of Commerce wants people to tell them what they think about the way they ask for information about steel and aluminum coming into the country. They want to make sure they are only asking for what they really need and not making it too hard for people to send it.
Summary AI
The Department of Commerce is seeking comments from the public and other federal agencies on their process of collecting information regarding objections to Section 232 adjustments on imports of steel and aluminum. This feedback will help them determine the necessity and impact of their data collection and find ways to make it more efficient and less burdensome. Citizens are encouraged to submit comments by April 1, 2025, and can do so via the provided email addresses. The information collected is used to evaluate national security considerations related to these imports.
Abstract
The Department of Commerce, in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), invites the general public and other Federal agencies to comment on proposed, and continuing information collections, which helps us assess the impact of our information collection requirements and minimize the public's reporting burden. The purpose of this notice is to allow for 60 days of public comment preceding submission of the collection to OMB.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document published by the Department of Commerce involves a call for public comments concerning the process of collecting information on objections to Section 232 adjustments. These adjustments affect the imports of steel and aluminum, significantly impacting industries reliant on these materials. Issued in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice invites feedback to determine the necessity, impact, and efficiency of the current information-gathering procedure.
General Summary
The Department of Commerce has released a notice seeking feedback on its procedures for gathering information related to objections over national security adjustments for steel and aluminum imports. Under Presidential Proclamations 9704 and 9705, certain duties were imposed on these materials, with the possibility of exclusions under specific criteria. The information collected helps in evaluating whether domestic steel or aluminum production meets demand, considering national security implications, and making informed recommendations.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One major concern is the clarity regarding the purpose and impact of the information collection. While the document states the intent to assess the impact of data collection, it does not specify the nature of the impact being evaluated. Additionally, the notice is vague on what constitutes "Confidential Business Information or otherwise sensitive or protected information," which might lead to inconsistent interpretations.
Another point of confusion arises from the stated zero cost to the public. Although no direct fees are indicated, individuals and businesses may still incur substantial indirect costs, such as time and resources devoted to compliance. Clarity regarding the decision-making role of "the Secretary or their designee(s)" and the specifics of selecting appropriate officials is also lacking, which could create uncertainty about the accountability and transparency of the process.
Furthermore, details regarding the method of electronic submission are not provided, posing potential challenges for respondents lacking digital access or familiarity with online procedures.
Impact on the Public
Broadly, this document and the ensuing comments process offer a platform for individuals and businesses to express their viewpoints on the adjustment of import duties on essential raw materials like steel and aluminum. The feedback gathered can influence decision-making and policy to ensure that economic practices align with national security requirements and industry needs.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For industries relying heavily on steel and aluminum, such as manufacturing and construction, the document signifies an opportunity for expressing practical concerns about supply sufficiency and quality. This consultation can direct the formulation of more balanced exclusion protocols, preventing potential disruptions in operations and ensuring competitiveness.
On the other side, domestic steel and aluminum producers might view this process as a chance to advocate for duty policies that protect local industries from overseas competition. The approach outlined could either support or hinder their interests depending on how adjustments are interpreted and implemented.
In conclusion, while the Department of Commerce aims to refine its information collection process for import adjustments, this notice reveals some ambiguities that could affect its effectiveness and clarity. Public and stakeholder engagement will be essential to address these nuances and ensure that policies serve both national security interests and economic vitality.
Issues
• The purpose and impact of the information collection could be elaborated further for clarity. The abstract mentions assessing the impact but does not specify what impact is being evaluated.
• The notice does not provide specific examples or guidelines regarding what constitutes 'Confidential Business Information or otherwise sensitive or protected information,' leaving it open to interpretation.
• The estimated total annual cost to the public is stated as 0, which might be misleading as respondents may incur indirect costs related to time and resources spent, despite there being no direct fees.
• The document could be more explicit in explaining how comments submitted will be used and the specific decision-making process influenced by these comments.
• The phrase 'the Secretary or their designee(s)' could be less ambiguous by specifying the criteria or process for designating an appropriate official.
• The requirement for the electronic submission method is not detailed, which might affect respondents who may not have ready access to or familiarity with electronic submission processes.