http://www.fas.org/blog/secrecy/2009/12/open_government.htmlNew Directive Would Foster Open GovernmentIn a conscious and far-reaching attempt to change the culture of
secrecy that prevails within many government agencies, the Obama
Administration today issued a directive
(pdf) that orders each federal agency to establish an open government
program with mandatory new information disclosure obligations as well
as opportunities for public participation.Moving beyond the familiar rhetoric of openness, the directive imposes substantive new publication requirements, sets deadlines, promotes sharing of best practices, and promises further steps to come. So, for example, within 45 days each agency is obliged to publish
online “at least three high-value data sets” that have not been
previously available online. Within 60 days, each agency must establish a portal for public access to its open government activities, including provision for public feedback and input. Within 90 days, OMB will issue guidance on the use of new incentives to promote further openness. |