Overview
Title
Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Department of Agriculture wants to know what people think about a form that helps find out which groups are helping people with food and nutrition. They want feedback on how important this form is and how it can be made easier to fill out.
Summary AI
The Department of Agriculture has forwarded an information collection requirement to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. They are seeking public comments on this requirement, specifically asking about its necessity and utility, and suggestions for minimizing the burden on respondents. The focus of this request is the USDA National Hunger Clearinghouse Database Form (FNS 543), which helps compile information on organizations aiding low-income communities with nutrition and food assistance. Public comments must be submitted by May 21, 2025, either online or through specific recommendations for this data collection.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document in question is a notice from the Department of Agriculture seeking public input on a proposed information collection requirement, specifically the USDA National Hunger Clearinghouse Database Form (FNS 543). This proposal has been forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The purpose of the form is to collect data on organizations that deliver nutrition and food assistance to low-income communities.
General Summary
In essence, the Department of Agriculture is inviting comments from the public on the necessity and effectiveness of this data collection effort. Stakeholders are encouraged to share their insights on how the information can be used, whether the data collection is practical, and if the burden on those required to respond can be minimized. These comments are crucial as they provide input on the utility of collecting details on organizations working in nutrition assistance, serving as valuable data for both government and public resources.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several issues arise from the document that warrant attention:
Clarity of Purpose: The document lacks a clear explanation of how essential this information collection is for agency functions, creating a challenge for the OMB and public to assess its necessity. The purpose and goal of the data collection are not sufficiently outlined, leaving room for questions about its utility.
Burden Estimate Details: There is no detailed explanation of the methodology used to estimate the burden on respondents. Without this information, it's difficult for stakeholders to evaluate the validity of the number of respondents or the total burden hours cited.
Simplicity of Language: The document uses complex language when describing the need and utility of the information being collected, which could hinder public understanding. A simpler explanation could foster better engagement and feedback.
Minimizing Respondent Burden: While the document calls for input on reducing the burden on respondents, it does not provide specific strategies or technological solutions currently in use or planned for implementation.
Budget and Cost Information: The absence of budget details complicates any assessment of whether resources are being used effectively or preferentially.
Data Privacy Measures: Information protection and privacy measures are not addressed, potentially raising concerns among potential respondents about the security and confidentiality of the data they provide.
Impact on the Public
For the general public, especially those involved or interested in the field of nutrition assistance, this document represents an opportunity to shape how data collection efforts are conducted. Their feedback could help refine the process and ensure that the collected information is both useful and efficiently gathered, potentially influencing public policy and resource allocation in this crucial area.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For organizations assisting low-income communities, this proposal could have both positive and negative implications. On the positive side, participating in this data collection could lead to greater visibility and acknowledgment of their work, potentially attracting more support and resources. However, the burden of completing additional paperwork, particularly if it lacks clarity or simplicity, could strain already limited resources. Ensuring that the data collection process is streamlined and the privacy of their information is protected will be crucial for encouraging participation.
In summary, while the intention behind this information collection effort seems well-meaning, the document would benefit from greater specificity and clarity in several areas. By addressing the noted issues, the Department of Agriculture could significantly enhance stakeholder engagement and the overall quality of the data collected.
Issues
• The document does not clearly outline why the data collection is essential for the proper performance of the agency's functions or its practical utility, which could make it challenging for the OMB and public to evaluate its necessity.
• The methodology and assumptions used for estimating the burden of data collection are not detailed in the document, leaving readers without an understanding of the validity of these estimates.
• The language used to describe the need and use of information is somewhat complex and might be simplified for better public comprehension.
• There is a lack of detailed information on how exactly the burden on respondents will be minimized, especially regarding the use of technological solutions for data collection.
• No specific budget or cost details are provided, which would help assess whether the spending might be wasteful or if it favors particular organizations.
• The document does not specify how the collected data will be protected or any privacy measures, which might be a concern for respondents.