FR 2025-02857

The document from the Federal Register presents a notice from the Census Bureau within the Department of Commerce seeking public feedback on the proposed reinstatement of the Government Units Survey (GUS) in 2026. This survey is intended to gather updated information from townships and special district governments to support the Census of Governments (CoG). This initiative aligns with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, which encourages minimizing the reporting burden on the public by collecting necessary information efficiently.

General Summary

The survey aims to streamline data collection efforts by primarily utilizing online methods, although provisions exist for those unable to access the internet. Changes have been made to simplify the survey compared to its 2021 iteration by reducing the number of questions. The overarching goal of the survey is to provide critical data to update the Census Bureau’s understanding and documentation of local government units.

Significant Issues or Concerns

The document outlines various aspects of the survey, but it presents some areas that may cause confusion or warrant further clarification:

• Cost Implications: While the document states the survey has an estimated total annual burden cost of $0, this can be misleading as it doesn't factor in the value of respondents' time spent completing the survey.

• Data Verification Complexity: The multiple methods described for validating data from in-scope units are detailed but may benefit from simplification for the public to understand easily.

• Legal Authority Explanation: The document references Title 13 of the U.S. Code as the legal backbone for the survey but doesn't provide comprehensive clarity on how these sections specifically influence or justify the survey's scope and importance.

• Privacy Concerns: While the document does note that comments will be made public, it fails to provide adequate details on how the personal information of respondents will be protected, potentially increasing privacy anxieties.

Public Impact

For the broader public, the streamlined approach to data collection primarily via the internet could be received positively as it acknowledges modern data practices and aims to reduce unnecessary questions. However, it might also lead to challenges for tech-resistant communities or those with limited internet access, highlighting a digital divide that continues to persist across regions.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders like township governments and special district governments may find the revised survey easier to complete, as it aims to reduce the complexity and number of questions compared to previous years. However, these entities must allocate time from their public service duties, which, despite being voluntary, could impose indirect costs. Moreover, this necessity of timely and accurate data collection may encourage these local government units to improve their internal data management processes.

In conclusion, while the 2026 Government Units Survey presents a streamlined approach to data collection, it poses specific issues related to cost implications, data verification complexities, legal clarities, and privacy concerns that require careful consideration and possibly additional explanation to ensure full transparency and stakeholder confidence. The public and stakeholders alike will benefit from engaging in the comment process to voice their concerns and suggestions before the April 21, 2025 deadline.

The Federal Register document in question pertains to the 2026 Government Units Survey and includes a specific reference to financial costs associated with the survey. Estimated Total Annual Cost to Public: $0 is noted in the document. This financial allocation indicates that there are no direct costs expected to be incurred by the public in relation to this information collection activity.

Summary of Financial Reference

The document states that the estimated total annual cost to the public is $0. This suggests that participation in the survey does not require respondents to incur any out-of-pocket expenses for items like specialized software, hardware, or other resources. The absence of a direct financial burden on the respondents aligns with the document's objective of minimizing the public's reporting burden.

Relation to Identified Issues

1. Potential Misleading Information: The document's assertion of $0 cost might be misleading as it does not take into account indirect costs like the time required for respondents to complete the survey. The estimated time per response is seven minutes, affecting respondents, especially smaller townships or special district governments with limited staffing resources. Although brief, this time commitment might still be considered a "hidden cost" in terms of diverted time from other activities and responsibilities.

2. Complexity in Validation Methods: The document describes various validation methods for collecting accurate data. However, without a direct financial impact outlined, it is essential to reconcile the possible administrative and resource-related costs these methods may entail. Simplification of these sections might not directly relate to financial allocation, but understanding these processes could clarify whether there are costs absorbed by state offices assisting with data validation.

3. Legal Authority Context: The legal authority cited (Title 13 U.S.C., Sections 161 and 193) supports the validity and requirement of the survey. Although no direct financial allocations are associated with this legal backing, understanding the statutory framework helps to underline the non-monetary value and importance of participation without a financial burden.

In summary, while the document emphasizes a cost-free approach to the public concerning the survey, it remains imperative for stakeholders to understand both the explicit and implicit resources involved in contributing to such governmental data collection efforts.