OMB Requests Input on Standard Application Process for Accessing Federal Data

The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has issued a request for comments on the recommendations of the Interagency Council on Statistical Policy (ICSP) regarding the implementation of a standard application process for accessing confidential federal data (which may be downloaded here). The ICSP report, which was written in response to requirements in the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (“Evidence Act,” see previous coverage), outlines considerations for applying to access confidential statistical data, agency review of applications, and an appeals process for applications that are denied. OMB is particularly interested in receiving comments on the proposal related to metadata standards, application windows, applicant evaluation, appeals process, and public reporting. Full details are available in the Federal Register notice. Comments must be submitted by March 16, 2022.