United States Environmental Protection Agency Administration And Resources Management (PM-211A) EPA220-B-92-003 January 1992 &EPA Bibliographic Series Public Information Access ------- , \ UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY • WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460 X^ 2 3 PQ? ADMIN1NRATION ^ i^*- ANORESOUCES MANAGEMENT MEMORANDUM SUBJECT: Public Information Access ~l, ')'•'.'.' - FROM: Daiva Balk'us," Director Information Management and Services Division TO: Senior Information Resource Management Officials IRM Branch Chiefs Public Access Forum Attendees EPA Records Network EPA Library Network EPA Clearinghouse Managers Attached for your information is Public Information Access, the latest in our Bibliographic series. There is currently a renewed emphasis on public ownership of government information and the means to access it. Public Information Access provides EPA decision makers with summaries of current thinking on the many issues involved in public access to government information. Topics covered include policy issues, cost, legislation and the newly enacted National Research and Education Network (NREN), to build a "super highway of information." Case studies review federal, state and local examples of information access initiatives. If you would like additional copies, or have questions on the Public Access Program, please contact Brigid Rapp, Chief, Information Access Branch at 260-8710, or Email Rapp.B. cc: Al Pesachowitz Paul Wohlleben OIRM Division Directors Director, NDPD Printed on Recycled Paper ------- Public Information Access EPA Headquarters Library Information Access Branch Information Management and Services Division Office of Information Resources Management U.S. Environmental Protection Agency RoomM2904 PM-211A 401 M Street, SW Washington, DC 20460 U.S. Environmental Prctrsctlon Agency Region 5, Library (pi.-*"' 77 West Jackson Ecu:;:,, ,. :-,-• pjoor Chicago, IL 60604-3 C^O ' ------- CONTENTS Introduction i Federal Policy 1 Electronic Dissemination 16 Local and State Case Studies 28 NREN & Internet 32 Cost 43 Access Mechanisms 47 Congress and OMB Current Legislation 52 Freedom of Information Act 57 Paperwork Reduction Act 58 OMB Circular A-130 60 Technology Transfer 62 Environmental Initiatives 65 EPA/OARM Case Studies 69 ------- PUBLIC INFORMATION ACCESS INTRODUCTION The purpose of Public Information Access is to increase EPA staff understanding and awareness of public access issues. The issue of public access to government information is growing in complexity. Factors such as confidentiality, delivery systems, user fees and data integration all affect decisions concerning the dissemination and availability of government information. The "Principles of Public Information" developed by the U.S. Commission on Libraries and Information Science defines public information as ". . .information created, compiled, and/or maintained by the Federal Government...public information is owned by the people, held in trust by their government, and should be available to the people except where restricted by law." These principles are reflected in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) draft public access policy. EPA is striving to create, collect, manage and disseminate Agency information to the public. EPA is taking an active role addressing the issues of access by initiating an Agency-wide public access program and developing tools and communication mechanisms to facilitate public access to information. Public Information Access organizes summaries of issues such as the debate over who has access, who pays, and who delivers government information. A legislation section begins with an overview of current public access legislation and OMB Circulars, followed by new legislation pending before the current 102nd Congress. Additional citations are listed for three key pieces of legislation; the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), and OMB Circular A-130. The Headquarter's Library currently provides updates on IRM legislation. Technology issues are discussed as they relate to themes of U.S. competitiveness in the world marketplace, data integration and electronic dissemination. The development and implementation of public access networks such as NREN and Internet are included. Case studies illustrate real-life situations surrounding or resulting from public access issues in Federal, State, and local government. Public Information Access was compiled from sources available through DIALOG Information Services, Inc. Summaries are included for each entry. Entries summarized by the EPA Headquarters Library staff are indicated by the notation "Headquarters Library;" all ------- other entries are followed by the name of the database from which they were retrieved. The debate on public access in the press and the legislature is constantly changing. Because the issue of public access to information is dynamic, Public Information Access, is by nature of its topic a living document. For more information about the bibliography or EPA's Public Access Program, please contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Public Access Program PM-211D 401 M Street, SW Washington, DC 20460 11 ------- FEDERAL POLICY A national strategy for the information age. Allen, K.B. Information Management Review, Vol. 4, Issue 4, p. 17-27, Spr 1989 Discusses the value of information in American democracy, the evolution and current status of federal information policy, and the need for a national strategy to facilitate evolution toward an information society. Specific information policy goals and principles are identified, and suggestions for implementing policy formation are presented. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal information resources management (IRM): a policy review and assessment. Bishop, A. (Syracuse Univ., Syracuse, NY); Doty, P.; McClure, C.R. Managing Information and Technology, p. 40-47, 1989, Learned Information, Medford, NJ, 32 Since the passage of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, Information Resources Management (IRM) has been the major strategy used by the Federal government to improve the effective management of information and information technology and to reduce the costs of a wide range of information services and products. The authors briefly examine the conceptual basis of IRM, the origins and rationale of Federal commitment to IRM, and the development and implementation of Federal IRM policy. They also discuss assertions that Federal IRM has not adequately increased the effectiveness of information management, that Federal IRM is poorly understood and implemented by IRM managers, and that, as an instrument for implementing Federal information policy, it has had ambiguous results at best. It is concluded that the Federal government must renew its commitment to the original vision of IRM, with an emphasis on maximizing the benefits and value of Federal information for all its users. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) US Government information policy. Eisenbeis, Kathleen Journal of Education for Library and Information Science v29 (2) Fall 88, 92-98. 10 refs. bibliog Provides an understanding of the federal information policy. Some definitions of that policy are provided along with an idea of the range of issues being covered. Some of the current policy initiatives are highlighted, as are suggestions of ways faculty can participate in the policy process. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) ------- The right to know: public access to federal information in the 1980s. Shattuck, John Government Information Quarterly v5 (4) 1988, 369-375. 5 refs Examines government information controls in the context of the constitutional and statutory tradition of open access to government information in the USA. Discusses the restrictive climate in which the Reagan administration views public access and warns that restrictive national security policies may actually curtail economic growth, retard defence programs, and undermine the Constitution. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Government information: an underutilized resource. Mason, M.G. In: Government Information: An Endangered Species in the Electronic Age, p. 42-57, 1986, Special Libraries Association, Washington, DC This paper discusses the principles which provide for the underpinnings for the Federal role in information collection and distribution. The author considers what use consists of, what is going on now, and are the principles being worked out. The author considers how individual rights impacts upon information usage. Reinterpretation of the Freedom of Information Act is also discussed.(INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Presidential Initiative on Information Policy. Number 7 Shattuck, J. ; Spence, M. M. Performing Organization: Benton Foundation, Washington, DC. 1989 46p Two trends have inhibited the development of information and ideas, which are vital resources in a modern technological society, First, the Federal Government is engaged in efforts to control the flow of scientific and technical information (STI) to make it less accessible to foreign competitors and hostile nations. Second, the role of government in collecting, maintaining, and publishing information has been curtailed due to reduced federal spending on information resources. The President's policy agendas should include initiatives on information policy with special programs focusing on science, the economy, and national security. The following elements would be included: (1) a review of the system for classifying information; (2) a review of export controls and related restrictions on the communication of unclassified STI; (3) steps to give Congress and the public time to comment on proposed executive orders and national security directives; (4) interagency deliberations to develop guidelines that protect against undue ------- government control over the content and conclusions of federally sponsored research; (5) actions to limit the role of the Office of Management and Budget? (6) revisions in the Freedom of Information Act to facilitate access to government information; and (7) authorization for the Secretary of Defense to curb inappropriate secrecy in agency budgets. (NTIS) Finding government information: the Federal Information Locator System (FILS). Bass, Gary D. and David Plocher. Government Information Quarterly 8:11-32 no 1 '91 In 1977, the Commission on Federal Paperwork observed that "the Federal Government does not know what information it collects, with what frequency, from whom, and for what uses." To remedy this, the Commission recommended the creation of a Federal Information Locator System (FILS). Mandated by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, FILS exists today in name only. This article describes the ill-fated history of FILS and presents a vision of what FILS still can be — a series of linked computer systems maintained by Federal agencies to improve the management of information resources and facilitate public access to government information. (PAIS) Federal information inventory/locator systems: from burden to benefit. McClure, C.R. Jul 1990, 105p. Building on previous discussions of Federal information inventory locator systems (FILS), this report explores issues related to FILS and identifies policy and implementation options that can best meet the competing rationales and requirements for FILS. The concept of a Government-wide Information Inventory/ Locator System is explored, and it is suggested that such a system should would serve as an authoritative register of all Federal information collection requests, assist agencies in locating government information, and eliminate duplication of information collection. The system would contain citations and abstracts of publicly available U.S. government information, and the name of the agency or source where the information could be obtained. This study: (l) reviews the existing policy system regarding FILS; (2) clarifies the objectives and uses for FILS; (3) identifies key stakeholders (i.e., Federal mission agencies, Federal dissemination agencies, Office of Management and Budget Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Congress, public advocacy groups, the library/information science community, the general public, and the private sector); and (4) discusses issues and criteria related to how these systems can meet the needs of the stakeholders. The report assumes that readers are knowledgeable about Federal ------- information policies and information resources management and does not provide a general overview of the existing Federal information policy system. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) The quantification of information: the paperwork budget and the birth of the burden hour. Rubinstein, Gwen Government Information Quarterly, 7(1) 1990, p. 73-81 Discusses the problem of quantifying information and the elaborate system of numbers that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs within the Office of Management and Budget uses to measure paperwork. Notes the shortcoming of the Information Collection budget and encourages it elimination. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Proceedings of the Federal Pre-White House Conference on Library and Information Services Lister Hill Auditorium, National Library of Medicine, November 26- 27, 1990 Federal Library and Information Center Committee, Library of Congress These proceeding contain several main areas of continuing concern including access, networking, preservation, and funding. These core national issues were addressed under the umbrella of: "equal opportunity of access to federal information." The preconference activity goals included the promotion of the theme of "citizen access to federal information resources through federal agency informational organizations." The guiding principle of the federal preconference was that "access is the key" for the improvement of information services to increase productivity, expand literacy, and strengthen democracy. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) New Directions in Federal Information Policy and Dissemination. Snowhill, Lucia; Meszaros, Rosemary Microform Review v!9 (4) Fall 90, 181-185. During the Reagan Administration, federal information policies and climate were driven by budget cutting, elimination of publications, and a dramatic increase in privatization of federal information. Looks at proposed legislation of the 101st Congress and other factors through July 90 contributing to the development of information policy in the Bush Administration. Although the current legislative emphasis is on incorporation of electronic formats, print and microfiche publications continue to have a large and valid role in disseminating certain types of government information. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) ------- Information policy and the Bush administration: a first look. Shill, Harold B. Government Information Quarterly v7 (I) 1990, 1-7. 14 refs Attempts to identify directions in US information policy after one year of the Bush administration. The following general policy directions are emerging in some areas of information policy: electronic dissemination of information; scientific and technical information; the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and public/private roles and responsibilities. Examines the 1988 Republican Party platform, analyses the new administration's pattern of appointments; considers specific decisions made and actions taken on information-related issues since Inaugural Day, and gives attention to the Bush administration's decision-making structure, style and priorities in an attempt to identify information policy directions. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) What's new in federal information policy. Johnson, S.W. ed.; Hattery, M. Information Retrieval and Library Automation (US), Vol. 26, Issue 4, p. 1-4, Sep 1990 Reforms in federal information policy proposed by D. Allen Bromley, the President's science adviser, are discussed. Public information is defined. Principles of public information regarding access, dissemination, and integrity and preservation are suggested. An enhances role for FCCSET (Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology) is predicted. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) The use of government publications: a twelve-year perspective. Postema, B. (Fargo Public Library, Fargo, ND); Weech, T.L. Government Publications Review, Vol. 18, Issue 3, p. 223-238 May 1991 Updating an earlier review of the literature of government document use that was published in 1978, this article covers the period from mid-1977 through December, 1989. The literature is analyzed in terms of three categories: library surveys, citation studies, and user surveys. Six library surveys, three citation studies, and 13 user surveys (including studies using circulation data) are identified and analyzed. In addition, five non-U.S. studies are examined. It is noted that the research findings in some areas such as the conclusions that social scientists, especially economists and political scientists, are the heaviest users of documents; non-users believe either that documents do not contain information relevant to their information needs or that the time involved in retrieving the information from documents cannot be justified. Although some progress has been made in building on ------- prior research, a need still exists for more consistency in the construction of the data gathering instruments and in categorization of the results. It is suggested that future studies focus on the impact of privatization and electronic dissemination of government information on use and user attitudes. (INFORMATION SCIENCES ABSTRACTS) Remarks of Fred B. Wood, Senior Associate, Office of Technology Assessment, United states Congress, before the Federal Pre-White House Conference on Library and Information Services Proceedings of the Federal Pre-White House Conference on Library and Information Services Lister Hill Auditorium, National Library of Medicine, November 26- 27, 1990 Federal Library and Information Center Committee, Library of Congress Discusses some of the successes the information community has seen over the past two years in the area of public access to information policy. Lists 10 principles or guidelines critical to implementing access, and two avenues to use for enlisting support from the broader community to implement these principles; global change, and elementary/secondary education. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) The Cutting Edge of Federal Information Policy: An Interview with John Chelen, Esq., Executive Director, Unison Institute Sherwood, Diane Information Today Wn8 PP: 27-30 Sep 1990 In an interview, John Chelen, executive director of the Unison Institute, which was established to provide a center for computer systems and software technology in the public interest, discussed the functions of the Institute. The Unison Institute was founded on the belief that the opportunities arising from the changes in information technology and theory are vast and profound. The Institute is seen as a center in the public interest for the discussion and analysis of these opportunities. Chelen is most involved in questions of access to government information, especially questions relating to policies of dissemination and distribution, cost, media of dissemination, and computer software. Areas of interest include the possibilities for greater public access to government information. For the average citizen, the most important benefit from the open access to information provided by the Institute will be in the area of enhanced government effectiveness in the operation of its own programs. (ABI/INFORM) ------- Office of Technology Assessment perspectives on current US federal information issues. Wood, F.B. (Office of Technology Assessment, US Congress, Wash., DC) Government Publications Review, Vol. 17, Issue 4, p. 281-300, Jul 1990 These articles cover three of the major issues dealing with federal information management and policy currently being debated in the United States Congress. They present the Office of Technology Assessment's evaluation of and suggestions for improving current federal information initiatives. Topics treated include: government printing, the procurement of printing and other information products and services, the distribution and sale of public documents, the depository library program, the Paperwork Reduction Act, federal information policy, and the general management of federal information resources. The final article details the serious financial problems being encountered by the National Technical Information Service and outlines ways in which the Service can be salvaged. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Information policies: strategies for the future. Morton, S.; Barry, M. Special Libraries, Vol. 81, Issue 2, p. 158-162, Spr 1990 This paper summarizes the National Information Policy report of the Special Libraries Association on the issue of formulating a national information policy for the United States. Key issues included the dissemination of and access to government information, the greatest possible diversity of public and private sources, and protection of basic democratic values. Privacy, public subsidies, global competition, and government management of information are also reviewed. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal information policy. Morton, Sandy I. Government Information Quarterly v7 (1) 1990, 67-72. 6 refs With a new Administration at the helm and the 101st Congress in place, prospects are good for a coordinated effort within the government to establish viable information management strategies for the 1990s. Adapted from testimony given by the Special Libraries Association, to the House Subcommittee on Government Information, Justice, and Agriculture in May 1989, government information dissemination policies and practices are addressed and recommendations for the future offered. Original abstract (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) ------- strategies arguments and tactical battles over federal information policy development. Sherwood, Diane E. Government Information Quarterly v7 (1) 1990, 59-66. 10 refs Because there is no clear philosophy on the role of the Federal government in the dissemination of its own information, and because dissemination technologies are changing so rapidly, agencies conflict on how to disseminate information. Examines specific agency attempts its data in a way that satisfies its constituencies, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the private sector. Specifically the Securities and Exchange Commission's release of EDGAR, the Department of Commerce's Patent and Trademark Office's recent lawsuit of trademark records, and the Department of Defense's problems with Fedlog are cited. Statements and policy recommendations from recent Congressional hearings are also included. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Directions in federal information resources management: a view from the Office of Management and Budget. Reeder, Franklin S. Information Management Review v4 (4) Spring 89, 29-37. 29 refs Describes the role and functions of the Office of Management and Budget with respect to federal information resources management and defines some of the important trends and issues in information resources management policy. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Government publications and publishing during the Reagan years Hernon, Peter Government Information Quarterly v6 (4) 1989, 395-410. table. Claims that the Reagan administration adopted policies and practices that managed, controlled, reduced, and, in some cases, restricted the flow of government publications and information to the public. This overview identifies the relevant policy instruments used by the Administration in this regard, and indicates that Congress also reduced public access to government publications and information. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Discussion forum: national information policy. Hernon, P. Government Information Quarterly, Vol. 6, Issue 3, p. 229-236, 1989 Reviews discussions of the need for a national information policy and explores some of the complex issues involved in 8 ------- policy formation. The differences between national and federal information policy are identified, the role of scientific and technical information is discussed, and strategies for creating a national information policy are suggested. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Strengthening Federal Information Policy: Opportunities and Realities at OMB. Number 6 Bass, G., Plocher, D.; Benton Foundation, Washington, DC 1989 During the past decade the Federal Government has significantly retreated from its historical responsibility to maintain the free flow of information that is essential to maintain a healthy democracy. This responsibility includes the collection of basic data on the health of the economy as well as the dissemination of information that assists and propels public debate. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB), which has wide-ranging authority over Federal information activities, is the agency primarily responsible for discouraging the flow of public information. It has failed in its mandate to improve Federal information resources management (Circular A-130) , deferring to private sector businesses instead of helping agencies to plan for the new electronic information age. Two areas in which OMB has exercised control over Federal information activities are paperwork reduction and information resources management, and management of Federal information dissemination through reductions in printing of government publications and the privatization of government information dissemination. The consequences of these cutbacks in information activities have been magnified by the current revolution in information technology. Efforts should be made to: (1) articulate a national information policy; (2) reform legislative direction and oversight; (3) reduce centralized political control of Federal agency information activities; and (4) strengthen the capabilities of Federal agencies to control their information activities. Congress and the President must work together to redirect Federal information policies and practices if the free flow of public information is to be ensured. (NTIS) Federal information policies: the Congressional initiative. A summary of proceedings of the annual forum of federal information policies, 1989. Price, D. (Federal Library and Information Center, Washington DC) 80 pp., 1989, Pub. No: ED 314 070 This booklet summarizes the proceedings of a forum—whose audience consisted of over 200 library and information managers, congressional staff members, and persons from the information industry and academic community—on the condition of federal information policies as they relate to the Congressional ------- initiative. Among issues discussed are: (1) the role of Congress in formulating information policies, and how that role is balanced by the executive and judicial branches; (2) the practicality and desirability of centralized control over the dissemination of government information; and (3) the inhibiting impact of the costs of acquiring information in electronic formats on access to that information. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal information policy. Boehlert, Sherwood Government Information Quarterly v6 (l) 1989, 25-29. refs Contribution to a special section devoted to the 5th annual forum on federal information policies, a symposium on the impact on competitiveness, held in Washington, DC, 7 Mar 88, and sponsored by the Federal Library and Information Center Committee (FLICC). Keynote address which underlines the necessity of having a coherent information policy that fosters competitiveness and recognizes the place of the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) within the federal government. The policy structure must create greater opportunities for the American public to gain access to worldwide information. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal information policy and its impact on competitiveness: a viewpoint. Boehlert, Sherwood Government Publications Review v!5 (5) Sept/Oct 88, 399-402 Congressman Sherwood Boehlert discusses the issue of US competitiveness in trade and how it is affected by the ready availability and free flow of information. Concludes that there is a critical need for the development of a comprehensive US information policy. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Technology assessment and federal information policy. Eisenbeis, Kathleen Special Libraries v79 (3) Summer 88, 200-206. 23 refs A rapidly changing information technology environment, changing user needs, and an active information industry lobby are forcing Congress to rethink current information policies embodied in numerous and often conflicting laws, regulations, and guidelines. A knowledge of the chain of events leading to the current Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) appraisal of technology, public policy, and the changing nature of federal information dissemination is useful in understanding the complex issues, questions, and concerns now facing legislative policy makers. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 10 ------- A secondary publisher's views on federal information policy: a viewpoint Landau, Herbert B. Government Publications Review v!5 (1) Jan/Feb 88, 1-10. table. Adapted from a talk presented at the Federal Library and Information Committee 'Forum on Federal Information Policies', 25 Feb 87, Washington, DC. Current US government information policy is found lacking in terms of its support of the domestic information industry. Lack of federal leadership and a broad-based national information policy imposes a serious competitive handicap upon the USA. As a result, large segments of the US information infrastructure have been acquired by foreign interests. The US response to the present situation requires: a comprehensive and cohesive national information policy; a focal point for national policy and program development and coordination; and recognition and nurturing of US private and public information resources (LIBRARY AND SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Statement before the subcommittee on Science, Research and Technology on Federal Information Resources Policy, July 14, 1987 Skill, Harold B. West Virginia Libraries v40 (3) Fall 87, 8-28. 8 refs Statement on behalf of the American Library Association before the subcommittee on Science, Research and Technology, House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on Federal Information Resources Policy, 14 July 87. Lists the subcommittee's concerns and addresses them by: examining the national and international context of information policy today; reviewing the federal government's current programs for acquiring, processing, organizing, indexing and disseminating both completed research and statistical data; analyzing the question of public/private responsibilities in the context of current national information needs and the option of converting the National Technical Information Service into a government corporation; and giving more attention to a policy mechanism which might appropriately draft the type of information policy the Subcommittee seeks. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Public Laws and Public Access Chartrand, Robert Lee Information Society v5nl PP: 7-18 1987 The roles of traditional libraries and the newer multi- purpose information centers in offering the type of access desired by their patron? will continue to evolve with technological advances and changing user needs. In view of these changes, the issue of access is becoming more important. Information 11 ------- professionals have focused close attention on national information access policies and the increasing complexity of formulating such policies. Over 500 bills and resolutions that focused on information-related matters were introduced during the 99th Congress, most concerning the areas of: 1. library and archives policy, 2. information disclosure, confidentiality, and right of privacy, and 3. government information systems, clearinghouses, and dissemination. Policymakers are beginning to view information as a commodity and as a national resource that must be protected and cultivated. (ABI/INFORM) Access and dissemination issues concerning federal government information Levin, Marc A. Special Libraries v74 (2) Apr 83, 127-137. 20 refs For the first time in US history a national information policy is beginning to surface-unplanned, with little democratic participation, and less unanimity. Examines the federal access and dissemination policies that favor and encourage the availability of public information; the structures and mechanisms for producing and disseminating government information; recent legislation and legal implications of policy decisions; the effect of new technologies on public access and dissemination issues; current executive branch policy directions; and a call for action to reverse some trends that threaten basic values and rights. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal Information Policies in the 1980s: conflicts and Issues Hernon, P.; McClure, C.R. 467 pp., 1986, Ablex Publishing Co., Norwood, NJ This book examines the development of US information policy. It then examines the uses of government publications as an information resource. The impact of public access laws, and of legislation and regulations on the provision of federal government information are studied. Federal science and technology information policies are also studied, both before and during the Reagan administration. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) United States government information policies: views and perspectives. McClure, Charles R. 1989, xi+349pp. Includes discussion on the role of the Office of Management and Budget and other federal agencies in information policy development, and the collection and dissemination of information. (PAIS) : 12 ------- Federal information resources management (IRM): a policy review and assessment. Bishop, A.; Doty P.; McClure, C.R. In: Managing Information and Technology, p. 40-47, 1989 Since the passage of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, Information Resources Management (IRM) has been the major strategy used by the Federal government to improve the effective management of information and information technology and to reduce the costs of a wide range of information services and products. The authors briefly examine the conceptual basis of IRM, the origins and tarionale of Federal commitment to IRM, and the development and implementation of Federal IRM policy. They also discuss assertions that Federal IRM has not adequately increased the effectiveness of information management, that Federal IRM is poorly understood and implemented by IRM managers, and that, as an instrument for implementing Federal information policy, it has has had ambiguous results at best. It is concluded that the Federal government must renew its commitment to the original vision of IRM, with an emphasis on maximizing the benefits and value of Federal information for all its users. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Information policy: a study of values in the policy process Overman, E. Sam, and Anthony G. Cahill Policy Studies Review, Summer 1990 Discusses such issues as access, privacy, openness, usefulness, cost and benefit, security, and ownership and their relative significance in the existing legislation and policy debate. (PAIS) How many people can keep a secret?. Data interchange within a decentralized system. Clark, C.Z.F. (Agriculture Division, Bureau of the Census, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC); Coffey, J.L. Review of Public Data Use, Vol. 12, Issue 4, p. 271-277, Dec 1984 This paper describes and discusses a number of the issues associated with the sharing of statistical data by federal government agencies. It also provides a brief history of U.S. federal government legislation concerning the confidentiality of statistical data and considers the legal concepts originating in that legislation. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 13 ------- There ought to be a law.. (Issues of statistical use of information collected by the federal government). Alexander, L. (Office of Research, Social Security Administration, Dept. of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC) Review of Public Data Use, Vol. 12, Issue 4, p. 279-287, Dec 1984 This paper considers the issues of statistical use of information collected by the federal government, especially the administrative records that agencies maintain in order to carry out their programs. It considers the existing provisions of federal confidentiality law and the various arguments for legislative change. It discusses the benefits of changes, but also the constraints that they would be likely to impose on the sharing of statistical data. A focal point for the paper is the draft bill for Confidentiality of Federal Statistical Records recently circulated by the Office of Management and Budget. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) URISA 91. Information and Technology: Gateway to Solutions Proceedings from URISA (Urban and Regional Information Systems Association) Public Information: Legal Issues, Policy Issues, Use and Impact of Information Technology. Vol. 4, 900 Second Street, Suite 304, Washington, DC 20002 The URISA '91 proceedings include papers on the latest developments in the information systems industry, including new projects, case studies and field analyses written by people in the field. URISA is a professional/educational organization for individuals concerned with the effective use of information systems by local, regional, and state/province governments. URISA's over 3,000 members include providers, managers and technicians, analysts and vendors associated with county or municipal governments. The Proceedings of the 1991 conference held in San Francisco include papers on the development of data policy for the information age, open records law, CIS, copyright, information privacy and consensus in the development of public information policies. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Information 2000: Library and Information Services for the 21st Century. Summary report of the 1991 White House Conference on Library and Information Services (WHCLIS). July 9-13, 1991 (Available from WHCLIS, 1111 18th St., NW, Washington, DC 20036 The summary report of the White House Conference on Library and Information Services (WHCLIS) contains the final 95 recommendations adopted by delegates to the July 1991 conference. The conference is the culmination of state pre-conferences involving thousands of information professionals nationwide. The conference themes, 14 ------- literacy, productivity and democracy, are reflected in some aspect of each of the recommendations. Thirteen priority recommendations include: enactment of legislation to create and fund the National Research and Education Network (NREN) to serve as an information "super highway"; a provision that assures that libraries continue to acquire, preserve, and disseminate those information resources needed for education and research in order for the United States to increase its productivity and stay competitive in the world marketplace; development of a National policy for information preservation; congressional amendments to copyright legislation to accommodate the impact of new and emerging technologies; amendment of the Freedom of Information Act to ensure access to all non- exempt information whether received by the federal government or created at public expense and regardless of physical form or characteristics; and enactment of a national information policy. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) 15 ------- ELECTRONIC DISSEMINATION Online Access to Government Information: A Foundation's view Toll, Martha A. Bulletin of the American Society for Information Science v!7n6 PP: 11-12, Aug/Sep 1991 Policy questions have arisen about government agencies' information management procedures, public access to data, the government's affirmative role in disseminating it, and who should pay for it. The Bauman Foundation (Washington, DC) , a private, nonprofit foundation, is working to strengthen public access to government information in the electronic age. Its greatest challenge lies in encouraging the public to participate in information policy discussions and decisions at the federal level. Broadening the nonprofit constituency beyond the civil liberties and citizen watchdog groups concerned with right-to-know issues in the electronic age is a crucial, albeit long-term, process. The Bauman Foundation has worked to help realize the potential of the Environmental Protection Agency's Toxic Release Inventory, a publicly available database of toxic emissions. The Foundation now is seeking to foster electronic access across the entire spectrum of government activities. (ABI/INFORM) Online Access to Federal Information: A Publisher's View Massa, Paul P. Bulletin of the American Society for Information Science v!7n6 PP: 8-9. Aug/Sep 1991 An assumption is often made that the federal government has numerous databases that the public could access readily if only a "gateway" or "window" were provided. However, only a small amount of electronic information owned by federal agencies could conceivably be mounted by the federal government itself for remote public online access. Editorial control would have to be far stricter at all levels, from the technical validation of data to the careful resolution of content and design issues. Skilled human effort would be required at all stages: collection, processing, access, preservation, and dissemination. Dissemination trends already under way are likely to accelerate, such as the emergence of a complementary relationship between government and non-government information sources. Costs will have to be minimized by ensuring that the information is easily available in standard formats on offline media. A creative realism that capitalizes on existing strengths will better equip the US to face the challenges of the new information-intensive century that lies just ahead. (ABI/INFORM) 16 ------- Pathways: Online Freedom Anzovin, Steven Compute! (GCOE) v!3n4 p46 Apr 1991 Leonard J. Umina, who ran for governor of Massachusetts in 1990, feels that electronic technology is the key to restoring the free spread of information. He and his Independent High Tech Party have proposed a program for public access to government information. (COURIER PLUS) Freedom of Information in the Computer Era Shulman, Seth Technology Review (TCR) v93n5 p!4-15 Jul 1990 Computer tapes containing electronic memos sent by White House staffers are at the center of a battle over public access to government information. (COURIER PLUS) Determining the content and identifying suppliers of public information in electronic form. Perritt, H.H. (Villanova University Law School, Villanova, PA) Government Publications Review, Vol. 17, Issue 4, p. 325-332, Jul 1990. This paper reviews the issues involved in the growing debate on the circumstances under which federal government information should be made available to the public. The existing legal framework is found to be adequate to accommodate electronic information policies. The author discusses how the particular features of electronic information products should be designed to meet consumer needs. The author stresses the need to define public and private sector roles in adding value to electronic information. Five different stages of information processing at which these roles influence information are studied. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Computers and the FOIA Stein, M L Editor & Publisher (GEDP) v!23n23 p!6-17 Jun 9, 1990 Reporters will find the effort to get information under the Freedom of Information Act even harder as federal agencies move toward the creation of electronic databases; however, the databases can bring some benefits to news organizations. The advantages and disadvantages of databases are discussed. (COURIER PLUS) 17 ------- Public Access: Two Cases of Federal Electronic Dissemination U.S. General Accounting Office Report to the Chairman, Subcommittee on Government Information, Justice and Agriculture, Committee on Government Operations, House of Representatives; May 14, 1990 In using information technology to conduct their business more effectively and efficiently, federal agencies have converted public information from paper documents and data files into electronic data base systems. Various public interest groups have expressed concern that this transformation of public information and public decision-making into electronic formats has occurred without serious public policy attention being paid to how it may affect citizen access rights to public information. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Making It Hard to Get Records Chichioco, Tess Editor & Publisher (GEDP) v!23n!3 p!6 Mar 31, 1990 As government increasingly conducts its business through computers, the fight for access to records has shifted to an ill-defined area. It is now much tougher to get government records through the Freedom of Information Act, because computers can be used to hinder disclosure. (COURIER PLUS) Access denied: new electronic technologies should make it easier for the public to get at governmental data, but requests are often blocked; Congress may try again to open the doors. Moore W. John. National Journal v22:121-4, January 20, 1990 Access to electronic information such as data bases has uncovered new problems related to the public's right to gain access to government information. Also included discussion of the controversy over whether the 1966 Freedom of Information Act applies to such information. (PAIS) The freedom of information act needs no amendment to ensure access to electronic records. Goldman, P.A. Government Information Quarterly, Vol. 7, Issue 4, p. 389-402, 1990 This discussion of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) focuses on its applicability to computer records. Agency practices to ensure access to information are considered; requests, litigation, and administrative appeals that have helped clarify the FOIA are described; and computer software, electronic mail, computer programming, and requested formats are discussed. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 18 ------- Federal Information in the Electronic Age: Policy Issues for the 1990s The Bureau of National Affairs, 1990 BNA's new Special Report presents a factual and comprehensive review of the explosive debate that is likely to result in major changes in how the government supplies information and the future role of the private sector in information delivery. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Dialing Uncle Sam: government bulletin boards as information resources. Delfino, E. (Library of Congress, Washington, DC) Online/CD-ROM '90 Conference Proceedings, p. 44-48, 1990, Online, Inc., Weston, CT The efficiency of bulletin board system software as the means of providing information by government agencies is discussed. The importance of the mission support bulletin board systems is emphasized. The usefulness of the system operator is examined. A listing of available bulletin boards is provided. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) AT&T Wins Pact to Build Kat'l LAN Internet for IRS Messmer, Ellen Network World v8n29 PP: 2, 6 Jul 22, 1991 In July 1991, the Department of the Treasury awarded a 7-year contract to AT&T for networked computer systems that will automate the bulk of the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) remote offices and provide links to IRS data centers. The IRS will install local area networks (LAN) in local and regional tax offices and link them with a nationwide backbone net. The installations are part of a broad information systems effort to embrace client-server computing, which will facilitate the exchange of data between the tax offices and IRS data centers. The Treasury Multi-User Acquisition Contract (TMAC), with a potential value of $1.4 billion, is the single largest computer systems order AT&T has ever received. The contract will be the basis for all IRS network purchases during the next 7 years. Other Treasury agencies will have the option of purchasing equipment and services through the TMAC contract as well. The typical design envisioned under TMAC will feature AT&T workstations networked to a Pyramid MISe server, which would run a distributed database application. (ABI/INFORM) 19 ------- 6E Division Builds Global LAN Internet O'Brien, Timothy Network World v8n28 PP: 1, 88 Jul 15, 1991 General Electric Co.'s (GE) Nuclear Energy Division has awarded a multimillion-dollar contract to Hughes LAN Systems for deployment of an enterprise network linking local area networks (LAN) and personal computers at its manufacturing sites and offices worldwide. The divison will install Banyan Systems Inc. VINES LANs throughout its campus facility. The global LAN internetwork is expected to make GE more competitive by streamlining operations and speeding the transfer of information. The GE project team established a 4-phase implementation plan that addressed cabling in its first 2 phases and LANs and internetworking in the final 2. The enterprise net will support many of the current mainframe applications that run the business. GE is also planning to move some large systems applications down to the LANs. GE's Sush Patel said that VINES was selected because of its superior wide-area communications facilities. (ABI/INFORM) IBM Hail for '90s: "Free Jailed Data" Orr, Ken Software Magazine vlln9 PP: 51-57 Jul 1991 "Data in jail" is how some industry experts refer to the data accessibility and integration problem. IBM's solution to the data access problem is a new data strategy for the 1990s - the Information Warehouse, which is a framework for data access for all products and applications. This framework has 2 major conceptual components: universal data access and informational databases. Universal data access provides a common mechanism by which any application can access any type of data format on any hardware or software platform throughout the enterprise. This common mechanism is called an application programming interface. Developing a strategy for separating the support of informational databases from the support for operational databases is a key to the Information Warehouse framework. Developing an enterprise-wide Information Warehouse involves defining what data exist with the enterprise's key operational system and then determining what specific end-user communities require. A key technology in these activities is information (data) modeling. (ABI/INFORM) Power to the People Roesler, Paula Telephony v219n28 PP: 12-13 Dec 31, 1990 A case study on data integration. Pacific Gas and Electric Co., which has more than 4.1 million electric and 3.5 million gas 20 ------- customers in northern and central California, handles enormous volumes of information. Three years ago, the company began to build a local area network-wide area network (LAN-WAN). Until all offices are interconnected and voice and data integration is completed, the company is complementing the LAN-WAN with its mainframe-based computer system and PBX-based telephone network. At present, between 60 and 70 offices are included in the LAN-WAN. Mark Michaels, LAN-WAN project manager for the business distribution unit, says the goal is to have 125, or about 50%, of the company's offices interconnected by 1992. The company's distribution, electric supply, gas supply, nuclear power and generation, and corporation shared power business units will each have unique LAN-WAN applications. According to Michaels, the LAN-WAN can address both current and future needs. (ABI/INFORM) Government Information Goes On-Line Perritt, Henry H., Jr. Technology Review v92n8 PP: 60-67 Nov/Dec 1989 As increasing amounts of government information are stored in electronic form, policymakers are attempting to decide just how far the government should go in making such information available to the public. Information sellers and some government officials argue that agencies should provide data wholesale but leave retailing to the private sector, since information companies are more responsive to consumer needs than government bureaucracies. On the other hand, public-interest groups feel that information technology could greatly improve the public's ability to draw on government data. However, neither faction appears to comprehend the complexities of government information in the electronic era. It is suggested that federal policy should promote public access to electronic information, while the decision of whether government agencies or private vendors would retail information to the public should depend on the costs and benefits of particular electronic information products. (ABI/INFORM) Electronic information and freedom of information: moving toward policy; a viewpoint. Wise, Bob Government Publications Review v!6 (5) Sept/Oct 89, 425-428 Discusses the relationships between government information in electronic format and the Freedom of Information Act and the implication it has for the formulation and implementation of US federal information policy. Also explored are the inherent tensions between the executive and legislative branches of government in the enterprise of formulation and implementation of information policy. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 21 ------- Information drought: next crisis for the American farmer. Kranich, Nancy C. Library Journal vl!4 (11) 15 June 89, 22-27. illus. 26 refs Since the Reagan administration began its war on waste in 1981 and the Office of Management and Budget promulgated guidelines for managing federal information resources in 1985, farmers and other citizens have had no alternative to buying their information from the private sector at far steeper prices. Cites as an example the EDI (Electronic Dissemination of Information) data base of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) operated by Martin Marietta Data Systems under contract to the USDA. P.B. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) National information policy: the broader context. Day, Melvin S. Government Information Quarterly v6 (2) 1989, 159-163. 1 ref Contribution to a special section on the 1988 US Office of Technology (OTA) assessment report: Informing the nation: federal information dissemination in an electronic age. The author works at Herner & Co., Arlington, Virginia. Argues that the OTA report, concerned only with electronic dissemination of information, should not be considered in a vacuum and that there is an urgent need for the US leadership to recognize that a national information policy is a fundamental requirement if the USA is not to lose its world leadership role in the information age. J.S. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS ABSTRACTS) A basis for increasing public access to federal electronic information. Shill, Harold B. Government Information Quarterly v6 (2) 1989, 135-141. Contribution to a special section on the 1988 US Office of Technology (OTA) assessment report: Informing the nation: federal information dissemination in an electronic age. Briefly assesses the OTA report, examines its strengths and weaknesses and suggests some directions for information policy development by Congress and the Bush administration. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 22 ------- Electronic dissemination of federal information. Sprehe, T.J. (Office of Management & Budget, Washington, DC); Coyne, J.G. ; Jayne, E.; Kronich, N.; McDermott, J. Managing Information and Technology, p. 217, 1989 The authors review developments since the October 1988 OTA report, "Informing the Nation." Specific topics addressed are executive branch initiatives, action on the congressional front, private industry perspectives, public access concerns of librarians, and agency management of federal information. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Draft policy of the U.S. Department of Commerce on the dissemination of information in electronic format. Government Information Quarterly v6 (1) 1989, 89-96 Reprints part of the draft guidelines on electronic data dissemination issued by the US Department of Commerce on 11 Aug 88 under the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) circular A-130 issued at the end of 1985. The Department of Commerce is the first department to issue such guidelines. Stresses that the guidelines may be revised when OMB issues its revision of A-130 covering electronic files. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Viewpoint: The Right to Access Information in an Information Age Allen, Kenneth B. Information Management Review v3n3 PP: 57-64 Winter 1988 The US government, in the name of national security, may seek to restrict the right of citizens to acquire information. New concepts of sensitive but unclassified information turned the government's attention to the online private-sector information industry in 1985. Concerned with foreign access to US public and private databases, the government, in 1986, approved a "National Policy on Protection of Sensitive, but Unclassified, Information in Federal Government Telecommunications and Automated Information Systems." The immediate public response to the government's definition of "sensitive, but unclassified" was both immediate and widespread. The information industry, librarians, civil libertarians, among others, all expressed concern that inappropriate restrictions on public access to information would result from this decision. A series of conflicting statements from Department of Defense (DOD) officials resulted in an attempt by the information industry to meet with government officials to clarify their concerns, but so far, the DOD has declined to do so. (ABI/INFORM) 23 ------- THE FEDERAL PAGE - As Paperwork Declines, GPO Eyes Future; Agencies Expected to Turn Increasingly to Electronic Dissemination of Information. The Washington Post, October 06, 1988, FINAL Edition Sec. A, p.A23 By: Bill McAllister, Washington Post Staff Writer Computers may have a major impact on the way the federal government handles information in the future, but for the immediate future the nation's bureaucrats will remain awash in paperwork. (NATIONAL NEWSPAPER INDEX) Informing the nation. Federal information dissemination in an electronic age. US Congress, Washington, DC 32 pp., Oct 1988 This report summarizes a study conducted by the Office of Technology Assessment which addressed the opportunities offered by technological advances to improve the dissemination of federal information essential to public understanding of many issues facing Congress and the Nation. Two major problems are highlighted: maintaining equity in public access to federal information in electronic formats, and defining the respective roles of federal agencies and the private sector in the electronic dissemination process. The report focuses on current and future roles of the US Government Printing Office (GPO) and the Superintendent of Documents, the Depository Library Program—administered by the GPO—and the National Technical Information Service (NTIS). In addition, the report suggests technical/management improvements and statutory/oversight changes, and examines opportunities for the electronic dissemination of congressional information. A list of related reports and general information on the Office of Technology Assessment are attached. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal Agency Use of Computer Modeling and Decision Analytic Support Wood, Fred B.; Smith, Jean E. Interfaces v!8n2 PP: 45-55 Mar/Apr 1988 The major US government agencies make widespread use of computer modeling and computer-based decision analytic techniques. Survey results indicate that about 60% of the responding agencies reported such use as of mid-1985. However, the full extent and actual effects of such use, especially with respect to federal decision making, are not well understood. A coordinated, modest research program could help identify which kinds of modeling techniques and applications are working well and which are not. Beyond further research on the use of computer modeling and decision support, steps can be taken to help decision 24 ------- makers more fully realize the potential of information technology to improve federal decision making. These steps are: 1. the development of guidelines or standards for evaluating models, 2. the establishment of a directory to major modeling applications, 3. the clarification of public access procedures, and 4. further development of the decision conference technique. (ABI/INFORM) New Locks and Keys for Electronic Information Anonymous Computers & Security v7nl PP: 89-93 Feb 1988 A report titled "Defending Secrets, Sharing Data," recently was issued by the Office of Technology Assessment of the Congress of the US. The report points out the criteria needed to maintain an objective balance between the need to safeguard important information and the need to insure that citizens have free and open access to unclassified information. The report examines: 1. US federal government policies directed at protecting information, 2. the vulnerability of communications and computer systems, and 3. the trends in technology for safeguarding information in these systems. The business community and the government agencies that deal with the business community often have a different outlook and different needs than defense and intelligence agencies when it comes to safeguarding information. The report examines the goals that specific federal government policies should aim to achieve. (ABI/INFORM) Policy perspectives on electronic collection and dissemination of information. Sprehe, J. Timothy Government Information Quarterly v5 (3) 1988, 213-221. 16 refs Discusses the relationship of OMB Circular No. A-130, the Management of Federal Information Resources, to the Paperwork Reduction Act. Information collection and dissemination are treated unequally in the Act. OMB's proposed policy guidance on electronic collection enumerated conditions favorable to electronic collection, and criteria for design and development of electronic collection systems. Issues raised by commenters included the response burden for electronic collection, the importance of benefit-cost analysis, and the advisability of waivers. Policy issues to be treated in forthcoming proposed OMB policy guidance on electronic collection include requirement of agency inventories of information dissemination products and services, the meaning of adequate notice prior to initiating or terminating dissemination, and other general guidance. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 25 ------- Authorizing EDGAR: information policy in theory and practice. Gellman, Robert M. Government Information Quarterly v5 (3) 1988, 199-211. 72 refs The Securities and Exchange Commission's new EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) data base of prospectuses, securities registration statements, and other SEC filings was authorized by the Congress. EDGAR is the first large Federal electronic information system authorized at a time when both the legislative and executive branches have been actively considering policies for electronic information systems. The legislative conditions established for EDGAR provide insight into the future direction for Federal information policy. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Computerizing Uncle Sam's Data: Oh/ How the Public is Paying Seghers, Frances Business Week n2977 (Industrial/Technology Edition) PP: 102-103 Dec 15, 1986 Allowing the private sector to set up computer information services for government data and reselling the data to recoup costs is a process that was expected to result in less costly services. However, prices for information have gone up in all cases. While Administration officials defend the higher prices on the grounds that the new sellers enhance the information or put it in a more usable format, critics contend that, while the information is easily affordable for big business, libraries, students, and other users cannot pay such higher prices. The raised prices are seen as a possible block to public access of government information. For example, at the Agriculture Department, the nonprofit University of Nebraska's Agnet database charged an annual fee of $60 plus $40 per hour. Now that Martin Marietta Corp. has exclusive rights to the database, charges are $1,800 per year plus $12 per hour over 150 hours. While such charges can be cost-efficient for heavy users, individuals and occasional customers suffer. (ABI/INFORM) Viewpoint: Government Automation Goes Public in Electronic Filing Allen, Kenneth B. Information Management Review vln4 PP:75-80 Spring 1986 A number of government agencies are beginning to implement electronic filing systems in order to reduce paperwork and costs. As the information flow between citizens and the state shifts to electronic media, the relationship between the public and the government could change. Therefore, both government and the public need to participate in the development of policies. The Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) has proposed to collect information electronically using the Electronic Data Gathering, 26 ------- Analysis and Retrieval System. The SEC's proposal to fund the over-$65-million system through the private sector has some problems: 1. The executive branch would not be subject to review and oversight. 2. It would promote inefficient resource allocation. 3. It would reduce public availability of SEC information. The Patent and Trademark Office has a similar project, which will be funded through exchange agreements with private-sector vendors. This action may diminish public access to the information. The Information Industry Association, along with the government, is addressing these concerns. (ABI/INFORM) Electronic collection and dissemination of information by federal agencies. US Congress, Washington, DC 599 pp., 1986 This document provides a complete record of testimony presented at a series of hearings before the U.S. Congress on the electronic collection and dissemination of information by federal agencies. In looking at the effect of new computer and communications technology on government information activities and practices, the hearings considered such issues as the capabilities and expense of modern computerized information systems, and the consequent reevaluation of the role of government agencies in the dissemination of public information. The first day of hearings concentrated on the EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) system developed at the Securities and Exchange Commission. Testimony on the second day considered the proposal of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to establish an automated tariff filing and information system. To explore potential conflict between the FMC and the private sector, some of the companies offering tariff automation services offered testimony. Other witnesses at the hearing represented three agencies that have developed electronic dissemination systems for press releases and other agency data — the Census Bureau, Food and Drug Administration, and Department of Agriculture. The final day of hearings focused on the National Library of Medicine's Medlars system and on the trademark automation activities of the Patent and Trademark Office. The hearings were held to review those decisions and to compare and contrast alternative approaches (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 27 ------- LOCAL AND STATE CASE STUDIES Panels Ruled Exempt from Disclosure Lav New York Times (NY) Sec B, p 2, col 1 Jul 31, 1991 The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled on July 30, 1991 that certain committees created by public agencies are exempt from the Freedom of Information Act. The ruling stemmed from a case involving the Eighth Utilities District, a public agency in Manchester that created a study committee to review its election procedures. At issue was whether the study committee was itself a public agency subject to freedom of information laws. Writing for the Supreme Court's 4-1 majority, Justice David M. Borden said the freedom of information law is unclear about whether it covers study or advisory committees appointed by public agencies. The case began in May 1988 when the district — which is responsible for fire and sewer services in the north end of Manchester -- appointed an "elections review committee" to consider changes in how the district conducts its annual meetings. A resident sought minutes of the committee's meetings taking the issue to the Freedom of Information Commission. (COURIER PLUS) Editor of Bay Area Newspaper Wins Freedom of Information Award Los Angeles Times (LA) Sec A, p 27, col I Jun 2, 1991 Bruce Brugmann, the editor and publisher of the San Francisco Bay Guardian newspaper, received the California First Amendment Coalition's Bill Farr Freedom of Information Award for his extensive work to enhance freedom of information and public access to government documents. Brugmann was recognized for his work on behalf of free access to information. His newspaper publishes an annual freedom of information issue and he testifies frequently on legislation involving access to public records. The award was named for Bill Farr, a Los Angeles Times reporter who was jailed for contempt when he refused to disclose the identity of sources for stories he wrote for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner during the trial of mass killer Charles Manson. (COURIER PLUS) A $46 Tape Becomes a $10K Print Job Betts, Mitch Computerworld v25n!7 PP:1, 121 Apr 29, 1991 Brownstone Publishers Inc. considered the database kept by the buildings department in New York City a valuable source of statistics that it could market to the local real estate industry. The company planned to use the state's Freedom of Information Act to acguire the data for just $46, the cost of copying the database onto computer tape. However, the buildings 28 ------- department said it would only release the database in paper form. This meant a 6-week, $10,000 printing job that would consume more than one million sheets of paper and force Brownstone to recoroputerize the data at an estimated cost of several hundred thousand dollars. The resulting court battle over whether the data should be released in paper or electronic form is a prime example of growing tensions between government agencies and parties that are trying to obtain computerized government records under freedom of information laws. (ABI/INFORM) Obstruction of Public Access? Fitzgerald, Mark Editor & Publisher (GEDP) v!24nll p!2, 51 Mar 16, 1991 In an open letter to Detroit MI Mayor Coleman Young, the Michigan Freedom of Information Committee has protested what it says has become a pattern of efforts by the city to obstruct public access to government information. (COURIER PLUS) How states utilize foreign evidence. Bennett, Colin J. Journal of Public Policy 11:31-54 Ja/Mr '91, bibl This article examines how evidence about Program A in Country A may be utilized in Country B, and thus how utilization may explain the adoption of the same program. Elites and activists have a number of interests in using policy evidence from another country: to put an issue to a systemic or institutional agenda, mollify political pressure, provide an exemplar, indicate the range of options or reinforce conclusions already reached. The interests of the importer dictate the nature, timing and origins of the evidence injected into policy debate. This framework is applied to the case of freedom of information policy. An analysis of how and why evidence about the United States Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was utilized in Canada and Britain reveals that FOIA was used as an exemplar in Canada and the reverse in Britain. (PAIS) Government Computer Files Open to Public/ Court Rules Sullivan, Ronald New York Times (NY) Sec 1, p 33, col 5 Oct 28, 1990 A New York State appeals court has ruled that public access to government records granted under the state's Freedom of Information Law applies to government computer tapes as well as to paper files. The unanimous ruling by the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court was hailed by freedom of information experts as highly significant because public agencies and private industry increasingly ask that they be given access to government documents or computer tapes rather than in written records. The ruling 29 ------- upheld a March decision by Justice David B. Saxe of State Supreme Court in the case of Brownstone Publishers Inc., which sought a Buildings Department computer tape that contained statistical information on virtually every piece of property in the city. Although the state's Freedom of Information Law provides public access to computer disks and tapes, Ms. Hehn, the assistant corporation counsel, said individual agencies have the right to decide in which form they can release their records. But the ruling emphasized that the "underlying policy of the law is to insure maximum public access to government records.: The panel ordered the Buildings Department to comply with Brownstone's request. (COURIER PLUS) Bill Would Allow More Secret Talks Harris, John F Washington Post (WP) Sec C, p 6, col l Jan 19, 1990 Although the Freedom of Information Act in Virginia forbids local governing boards to meet in private except in narrowly defined circumstances, the state's General Assembly is considering a bill that would allow city councils and county boards of supervisors to go on three-day retreats that are closed to reporters and the public. (COURIER PLUS) Florida's Information Policy: Problems and Issues in the information Age Florida State Legislature, Tallahassee. Apr 89 Pages: 273p This report examines the major issues arising from the impact of information technology on the creation of government information and its storage, processing, and recordkeeping, based on information gathered through a literature search, several mailed questionnaires, and three public hearings. An outline of the background of the information policy debate in Florida includes: a brief history of public records law, general principles of access in Florida, definitions of public records, exemptions, content and format of access, the cost of access, and the enforcement of sanctions. Findings of the study are outlined in nine chapters: (I) Defining Reasonable Access; (2) Security Concerns; (3) Legal Issues Associated with Optical Storage; (4) Dissemination of Public Information; (5) Computer Software Issues; (6) Computer Matching; (7) Fair Information Practices; (8) Technological Impacts on Privacy; and (9) Records Management and Archival Concerns. Conclusions and recommendations for state information policy are outlined in the final section. Appended are the proposed information policy legislation, copies of the questionnaires used in the study, public hearing agendas, and laws and opinions related to the copyright of public software. (NTIS) 30 ------- Boston's Leap Into the Information Age Marantz, Steve Boston Globe (BG) p 39, col 1 Mar 5, 1989 Boston's government is becoming one of the most computerized in the nation, according to the director of the city's Management Information Systems Department, but the public's access to much of this information is in question. Parking meter repairs, street cuts by utility companies, police details, handgun registration, and traffic light management are just a few of the hundreds of city government functions now managed by computers, a report soon to be published by the department says. Yet, as the amount and nature of information compiled by the city increases exponentially, so do questions of public access to that information. The Flynn administration, criticized in the past for keeping public information from individuals, reporters and elected officials, is facing untested public access issues stemming from computerized information. "New data is being created about which government will have to make responsible decisions," said Allan K. Stern, director of the Management Information Systems Department, who prepared the report. "Much of that data has not been put to the test yet." State law requires the disclosure of all public records, whether printed or computerized data, unless those records are exempt. The law specifies numerous reasons for exemption, including invasion of personal privacy. (COURIER PLUS) Your right to know. Mew York State's open government laws. New York State Committee on Open Government, Albany, NY Jan 1987, 18p. This brochure first discusses the make-up of the Committee on Open Government and its responsibility for overseeing the implementation of two laws: the Freedom of Information Law (Public Officers Law, sections 84-90), which governs rights of access to government records; and the Open Meetings Law (Public Officers Law, sections 100-111), which concerns the conduct of meetings of public bodies and the right to attend those meetings. An explanation is given of the Freedom of Information Law, what records are accessible, how to obtain records, and access to court records; sample request and appeal letters are provided. The discussion of the Open Meetings Law includes an explanation of what a "meeting" is, what is covered by the law, notice of meetings, closed meetings, minutes of meetings, enforcement of the law, the site of meetings, and exemptions from the law. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 31 ------- NREN & INTERNET Challengers Rise to Internet Anthes, Gary H. Computerworld v25n38 PP: 49, 55 Sep 23, 1991 The US General Accounting Office (GAO) says that Europe and Japan are closely watching the progress of the US' emerging National Research and Education Network (NREN) and that a gigabit-per-second, pan-European network patterned after it is a possibility. Barriers to the deployment of such a network in either region are more financial, political, and organizational than technical. Recently, 3 of Europe's 4 big computer companies Groupe Bull (France), Siemens Nixdorf Informationssysteme AG (Germany) , and Ing. C. Olivetti & Co. (Italy) - announced that they plan to jointly build a trans-European computer network called the European Nervous System. Japan announced that it would invest some $250 billion over 25 years to bring broadband ISDN to homes and businesses via fiber-optic cables. (ABI/INFORM)/ Gov't Reports Could Undercut Plans for NREN Messmer, Ellen Network World v8n38 PP: 11 Sep 23, 1991 Two Government Accounting Office (GAO) reports that weaken arguments calling for the federal government to spend millions of dollars on development of a nationwide gigabit network have been released. The reports came to light just as Congress was in the final stages of appropriating funds for a new program to build the National Research snd Education Network (NREN). One report underscored the reliance of large domestic companies in the oil, aerospace, automobile, and chemical industries on daily Tl data transmissions. However, none of the firms reported a need for transmission capacity beyond the commercially available T3 speeds of today. The 2nd GAO report presented the National Science Foundation Network as far advanced when compared to other research networks abroad. The report concluded that the US leads both Europe and Japan in the development of high-speed computer networks for research and education. (ABI/INFORM) Gov't reports could undercut plans for NREN. (National Research and Education Network) Messmer, Ellen Network World v8 pll(l) Sept 23, 1991 The governmental development of the National Research and Education Network (NREN) may be in jeopardy because of two reports 32 ------- released by the Government Accounting Office (GAO). The reports come when Congress has almost secured funding for the nationwide, gigabit network. One report indicates that the need for transmission speeds beyond those offered by T3 communications links is not required by industry users. It states that speed is not hampering the use of supercomputer technology as much as software and other factors are. The other report cited that the current National Science Foundation Network is already far more advanced than those available to other industrial nations. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Congress gives nod to NREN. (National Research and Education Network) Mace, Scott InfoWorld Vl3 p36(l) Sept 23, 1991 Congress has voted to fund the National Research and Education Network (NREN), a high-speed computer network for scientific research that will also have a portion reserved for commercial or private use. The High Performance Computing Act of 1991 is unlikely to be signed into law until 1992 due to differences between the House and Senate versions. President Bush supports the $2 billion plan, and many private companies are already preparing to bid for contracts. The current precursor to NREN is the National Science Foundation's Internet, which is limited to official use by educators and researchers; commercial equivalents are taking shape; however, through networks being established by ANS Core and UUNet Inc. Many expect increasing corporate use of the Internet. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Despite Senate's endorsement, NREN still has long road ahead. (National Research and Education Network) Messmer, Ellen Network World v8 p4(2) Sept 16, 1991 Senator Albert Gore's bill proposing establishment of the National Research and Education Network (NREN) has passed through the Senate. There are obstacles, however, that may impede implementation of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991. The bill outlines establishment of a national high-speed network featuring transmission speeds up to one gigabit/second. NREN is to be based on the existing National Science Foundation Network. Differences between the Senate's and House's views on the role of government in the national network may halt passage of the bill. The executive office also disagrees with the extent of the government's role in creation of the network, but Gore believes the President will eventually sign the bill. (COMPUTER DATABASE) 33 ------- Planned super networks foreshadow 21st century, (includes related articles on NREN fiscal and political prospects and following in the footsteps of ARPANET) Kobielus, James Network World v8 pi(5) August 26, 1991 Five federally funded research projects will provide a glimpse into the future of high-speed wide-area networks (WANs). The Aurora, Blanca, Casa, Necta and Vistanet high-speed network test beds will explore concepts for the proposed National Research and Education Network (NREN). NREN will provide high-speed, real-time communications between government, commercial and academic research computers. The projects are taking different approaches, some are focusing on network architecture issues, others are exploring engineering and optimizing applications for multigigabit networks. Research is currently in an exploratory stage at all five projects. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Interoperability and the body politic: connecting the TCP/IP world of the Internet. (Special Report: Interoperability) Romke, John LAN Times v8 p56(2) August 19, 1991 Participants in Internet, the federally-funded TCP/IP-based massive collection of LANs and long-haul networks, cannot fully utilize the interoperability provided by the technology. NSF NET, the backbone of Internet that succeeded Arpanet and that eventually will be replaced by NREN (National Research and Education Network) , is prohibited by the US government from carrying business transactions over NSFNET links. If the government continues this policy with NREN, businesses connected to Internet will be limited in the transactions they can conduct with some of their networked customers. Businesses that can justify their use of the network by supporting NSF NET-connected researchers who are their customers are exempted. Commercial activity over Internet will grow substantially during the early 1990s as corporations learn to conduct business over a wire. Individuals can help shape the future of Internet by writing to Congress or joining the Internet Society. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Beyond OPACS . . . The Wealth of Information Resources on the Internet Kalin, Sally W.; Tennant, Roy : Database Vl4n4 PP: 28-33 Aug 1991 I ; The Internet is a collection of local, regional, and national telecomunications networks. Primarily funded by the federal government, its participants include educational institutions, government agencies, and organizations that do research and development for the federal government. Scholars with 34 ------- workstations connected to a campus network with appropriate telecommunications infrastructure can link to the Internet and exploit a growing number of open access databases found there. However, there are still some problems that must be worked out before the Internet truly is the research tool network scholars expect it to be. For example, telecommunications problems still arise. In addition, users must be taught the ethics of using open access systems, and researchers need better and more information on what is available on the Internet. Finally, it is important that librarians evaluate what role they have in the dissemination of information about Internet resources. Many people do not know about the open public access catalogs (OPAC) and other information resources available on the Internet. (ABI/INFORM) NREN, a fundamental turning point in networks? (National Research and Education Network) (Telecommunications Insights) Hargadon, Thomas J. Office vl!4 p!8(l) July, 1991 The National Research and Education Network (NREN) may be the most powerful telecommunications device ever developed. The initiators of the NREN developed the network because they felt that the telecommunications industry was not developing very high bandwidth networks quickly enough. This meant that researchers and scientists were not able to transmit their work to one another. The SONET-based ANS has been selected as the backbone for the NREN. The initiators of NREN, however, would have preferred an asynchronous transfer mode system at speeds of 600M-bps to 1.6G-bps. The fundamental issues of the 1990s include the provision of international telecommunications services, compression technologies, and personal communications services, but not the NREN. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Civilizing Internet Churbuck, David Forbes v!48nl PP: 90-91 Jul 8, 1991 Despite problems, Internet has enormous potential. It is the place where electronic mail was born, and from it have sprung most of the de facto computer networking standards used commercially and abroad. Internet is financed by $20 million a year in federal subsidies covering a high-speed cross-country link managed by the National Science Foundation. Today, anyone with a computer and modem can get on the system by paying one of a half-dozen companies for an Internet access account. The most compelling reason to pay for access to Internet is its sheer size. Lotus Development Corp. founder Mitch Kaor foresees a world in which Internet will connect millions of dissimilar computers and become the prototype of a national public network. 35 ------- However, much remains to be done before that is achieved, including creating a directory. Managing the network is a troubling issue. The present grass-roots policing is full of flaws, especially security flaws. (ABI/INFORM) Whither NREN? (State of the Art; planning the National Research and Education Network; includes related articles on Internet and by Sen. Al Gore) Fisher, Sharon Byte V16 p!81(9) July, 1991 There is a two-sided debate on meeting the United States' future networking needs. One side proposes a federally funded National Research and Education Network (NREN), comparable to the interstate highway system, to encourage commercial development of networking services. Another side believes NREN-equivalent services are already offered by existing commercial vendors. NREN's forerunner is Internet, a government-sponsored network for educational and research use. In the late 1980s, the National Science Foundation gave money to establish a high-speed network backbone, called NSFnet, that currently links 16 supercomputer centers around the country. A 1989 White House Office of Science and Technology Policy report said that the US lagged other nations in high-technology development and that one way to overcome that gap would be to build a nationwide education and research network. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Editing Down Our Ideas About NREN: The Present Dog Won't Hunt Nelson, Milo Information Today v8n6 PP: 37-39 Jun 1991 The information industry is overwhelmed with the magnitude of problems associated with devising a national electronic network to rapidly share data. The question still remains as to whether the National Research and Education Network (NREN) is to be primarily dedicated to education, linking secondary and higher educational institutions together in a meaningful way, or dedicated to linking university and research institutions, or linking commercial and governmental entities. NREN cannot succeed in any true educational role with its present complication of roles. As presently conceived, NREN is an unworkable tangle of political, technology, and education and research interests. NREN can be an innovative way of binding together vast educational activities. However, the connection needs to be less complicated, less driven by the fear factor of competitiveness, and less beguiled by the technology that accompanies it. (ABI/INFORM) 36 ------- NREN: Your Tax Dollars at Work Finneran, Michael Business Communications Review v21n5 PP: 90, 92 May 1991 US Senator Albert Gore has introduced a bill that would fund development of a multigigabit fiber-optic network for government and educational users. The National Research and Education Network (NREN) is part of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991, intended to spur development in high-performance supercomputers. Primary responsibility for development of the NREN would lie with the Defense Advanced Research Poject Agency. Other than acceleration of research, the bill seems lacking in a goal or objective. The NREN is to be based on fiber, and it would link researchers in government, industry, and universities around the US. A lack of clarity and definition surrounds the proposal. It is unclear whether all locations would have fiber access. Further, the system would not even push the state of the art in fiber communications. Politics seems to be the motivator behind a vague and expensive proposal that would be largely irrelevant to the daily lives of most people. (ABI/INFORM) Users awaiting NREN. (National Research and Education Network) Jackson, Kelly CommunicationsWeek p!7(2) April 8, 1991 Sen Albert Gore, Jr (D-TN) has reintroduced legislation promoting the creation of the National Research and Education Network (NREN), a gigabit-speed computer network for linking government users, researchers, institutions of higher learning, and primary and high schools. Two major groups that are watching development of NREN are narrowband users, such as primary and high schools, and broadband users such as governmental agencies and supercomputer users. The Bush administration has proposed an allocation of $150 million for the NREN, but the money is only earmarked for one year. Gore's proposed legislation would fund the entire network, but is opposed by the White House, which feels that Gore's proposed network is too restrictive for the needs of high-speed networks and supercomputers. (COMPUTER DATABASE) Five Steps to NREN Enlightenment. Weingarten, Fred EDUCOM Review, V26 nl p26-30 Spr 1991 Discussion of NREN (National Research and Education Network) focuses on balancing the needs of a wider user constituency with those of the more technical scientific community. The flow of information technology is discussed, including the roles of schools, universities, and libraries; and issues of government intervention and questions of funding are addressed. (ERIC) 37 ------- The Internet as an External Economy: The Emergence of the Invisible Hand. Brownrigg, Edwin B. Library Administration & Management, v5 n2 p95-97 Spr 1991 Discusses the Internet, an interconnected array of scientific research networks. The role of libraries in the Internet is discussed; the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI) and Advanced Network Services (ANS) are described; and economic issues of the Internet are raised, including external economy and public good. (ERIC) Riding the Internet Coursey, David InfoWorld v!3n5 PP: 48, 57 Feb 4, 1991 What most people think of as the Internet is really a jumble of networks rooted in academic and research institutions. Together, these networks connect over 40 countries, providing electronic mail, file transfer, remote log in, software archives, and news to users on the 2,000 networks. Because it is not a single entity and given its roots in the UNIX world, many people find the Internet to be shrouded in mystery. Uunet Technologies provides Usenet feeds and other services to 1,800 subscribers. Usenet, although not strictly part of Internet, is the heart of the connected system. Usenet, a giant distributed bulletin board system, carries nearly 850 ongoing discussion groups. Every day, Usenet serves more than 11 megabytes of news to as many as 1.5 million readers worldwide. Internet is much more than a news feed and electronic mail. Remote log in allows users on one system to access another host across the network, while a file transfer program makes vast archives of software available. (ABI/INFORM) The NREM enigma: a new national network? (National Research and Education Network) Valovic, Thomas S. Telecommunications v25 p!3(2) Jan, 1991 The political and educational communities are discussing plans to expand the Internet network that presently connects US universities, government facilities and research institutions. A new network, the National Research and Education Network (NREN), would supply high-speed links between academic and research institutions and other areas of the US population, including the educational levels K-12 and local and regional libraries. Some proponents advise extending the network to residential subscribers. The NREN proposal raises issues of regulation and accountability as it combines the features of non-profit and commercial enterprises. (COMPUTER DATABASE) 38 ------- Hub, Internet Firms Profit by Partnering Brown, Bob Network World v7n51 PP: 9-10 Dec 17, 1990 Intelligent wiring hub vendors have entered into a series of strategic relationships with local area network (LAN) internetworking suppliers over the past year to broaden the capabilities of their products. By partnering with companies that provide router and bridge functions, wiring hub makers are able to offer users the ability to consolidate several LAN functions into one site and manage them from a single network management package. The agreements have become attractive to internetworking suppliers because the suppliers get a guaranteed base of users to whom they can pitch their products. In exchange, the internetworking vendors develop a board-level implementation of a bridge or router designed to fit in a specific wiring hub vendor's hub. The spate of partnerships crafted over the past year indicates that internetworking vendors recognize user demands to centralize network devices in the wiring closet instead of buying more expensive standalone devices. The pacts also provide internetworking vendors with access to a market that is expected to grow 50% annually through 1993. (ABI/INFORM) E-Mail Security System Developed for Internet Users Scott, Karyl Data Communications v!9n!5 PP: 18, 22 Nov 21, 1990 Nowhere is the threat of unauthorized access more present than on the Internet, the nationwide network linking thousands of users at US government facilities, research organizations, and universities, mostly through electronic mail. In response to growing concerns, the Privacy and Security Research Group of the Internet Activities Board (IAB) has developed a set of guidelines for secure e-mail. The group is conducting a test of a technology called privacy enhanced mail, which it expects to have adopted as an Internet standard early in 1991. The security standard will provide end-to-end encryption of messages through the use of public and private cryptographic keys. It will also ensure that messages are not corrupted en route to recipients. The architecture is similar to Open Systems Interconnection's (OSI) 1988 standard for X.400. Privacy enhanced mail encryption technology is designed by RSA Data Security Inc. (ABI/INFORM) 39 ------- Casting a New Net: Searching Library Catalogs via the Internet. Birchfield, Marilee 8 Nov 1990 Noting that telecommunications technology is making it possible to search library catalogs around the nation and the world via a modem and a personal computer, this paper highlights some of the reasons why a researcher would wish to search library catalogs through the Internet, which is a network of networks with connections to nearly 1,000 regional, government, and campus networks. The paper also discusses some of the problems that may be encountered by researchers who wish to use Internet to retrieve information, and describes efforts being made in the Northwestern University library's reference department to improve the existing documentation on Internet for its users. Outreach programs designed to increase faculty members' awareness and use of remote catalogs are also described. The paper concludes with a discussion of efforts being made on a national scale to extend the outreach of the Internet, which will promote the provision of information resources on existing networks and on proposed interconnected networks. (ERIC) The National Research and Education Network (NREN): Promise of New information Environments. ERIC Digest. Bishop, Ann P. ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources, Syracuse, N.Y., Nov 1990 This digest describes proposed legislation for the implementation of the National Research and Education Network (NREN). Issues and implications for teachers, students, researchers, and librarians are suggested and the emergence of the electronic network as a general communication and research tool is described. Developments in electronic communications and computing since the late 1960s are reviewed, including the development of such networks as ARPANET, NSFNET, Internet, BITNET, CSNET, and CREN. Implementation of the National High Performance Computing Act of 1990 would provide for: (1) the involvement of science agencies and national libraries in the development of resources for the NREN; (2) the linking of federal and industrial laboratories, educational institutions, and libraries; (3) the development of electronic information resources and services; and (4) the development of supercomputers and advanced software to support scientific and engineering research. However, before such a network can be instituted, several issues need to be resolved, including how to determine costs and management policies, guarantee universal access, provide user support and training, overcome organizational resistance to networking, maintain quality control of information resources, and adapt network services to 40 ------- research and education norms. New initiatives for network research, services, and advocacy have emerged as a result of growing support for national networking; these include the Corporation for National Research Initiatives, Reference Point, the Coalition for Networked Information, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation. One common goal of these initiatives, one that educators and librarians share, is the desire to shape the future of national networking in such a way that its benefits are made available to a broad range of users. (ERIC) Using the National Networks: BITNET and the Internet. Arms, Caroline R. Online, v!4 n5 p24-29 Sep 1990 Provides guidelines on using two national networks, BITNET and the Internet. The discussion covers electronic mail, bulletin boards, collections of public files, downloading files, logging into remote systems over the Internet, online catalogs and local databases on the Internet, and future applications. (ERIC) Hitchhiker's guide to life on the Internet. Bishop, K. A. Proceedings - Petroleum Computer Conference, Denver, CO, USA, 1990 Jun 25-28 Proceedings of the Petroleum Computer Conf., p249-254, 1990 This paper provides a survey level introduction to the Internet: the high speed communications network that provides access to remote supercomputers, libraries, and other specialized information services. In addition to describing the physical and logical topology of the network, it describes the supercomputing and network-oriented visualization capabilities offered by one node on the Internet, the National Center for Supercomputing Applications. Engineering studies are used as vehicles throughout the paper. (COMPENDEX PLUS) X-kernel: A platform for accessing internet resources. Peterson, Larry; Hutchinson, Norman; O'Malley, Sean; Rao, Herman Computer v 23 n 5 May 1990 p 23-33 X-kernel is an experimental operating system for personal workstations that allows uniform access to resources throughout a nationwide internet: an interconnection of networks similar to the TCP/IP internet. This network is also called the National Research and Education Network (NREN). The x-kernel supports a library of protocols, and it accesses different resources with different protocol combinations. In addition, two user-level systems that 41 ------- give users an integrated and uniform interface to resources have been built on top of the x-kernel. These two systems—a file system and a command interpreter—hide differences among the underlying protocols. (COMPENDEX PLUS) 42 ------- COST Selling Access by the Hour: Katten Muchin Hopes to Profit From EPA Data By Linda Hiroelstein Legal Times, November 11, 1991, p. 6 A database designed and compiled by the Chicago Law firm of Katten Muchin & Zavis of more than 2500 EPA policy documents, internal memorandum and enforcement action was originally developed for the firm's clients. There has been such a demand from outside the firm that the database may prove to be a money making venture for them. Before building the database, the firm relied on the Federal Register for much of their information. The material was not available in any organized form until the firm set about compiling the database. Now they use the computer and charge back the time to clients. There has been a tremendous amount of interest in the database from clients, other firms, and the EPA itself. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Towards 2001: An Examination of the Present and Future Roles of Libraries in Relation to Economic and Social Trends. Moore, Susan; Schauder, Donald Journal of Library Administration 14 (1) 1991, 19-33. In Australia, the government is actively pursuing the principle of the user paying, at least in part, for services, including libraries and education. Librarians have to look at alternative sources of funding, but also try to convince government of the need for subsidizing information services as part of an investment in human capital. By 2001 all library services might be priced but with a system of exemptions and subsidies to ensure access to information for all citizens. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Discussion Forum: Initiation of a User Fee Program by Federal Agencies Government Information Quarterly 6 (2) 1989, 113-126. illus. Analyses legislation, court decisions, and administrative guidelines issued by the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB), on the charging of user fees for information by US government agencies. Discusses factors to consider in determining the feasibility of institution charges. Concludes that costs of establishing and maintaining a system of user fees mean that they are not in the best interests of all agencies. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 43 ------- Byting the Hand that Feeds Them Gross, Daniel Washington Monthly v23nll p37-41 Nov 1991 Since 1981, the federal government has privatized much of the distribution of public information, such as the weather; as a result, private contractors have begun charging for information that was once free. Examples of the information industry's several monopolies are cited. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal Data Goes Private Rowe, Jonathan Christian Science Monitor p 15, col 2 Sep 24, 1990 The privatization of federal information, letting private vendors sell information the US government used to distribute at little or no cost, has caused the price of much information to skyrocket, and is costing US taxpayers more money. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Crown copyright and the privatization of government information in Canada, with comparisons to the United States experience. Hubbertz, Andrew Government Publications Review 17 (2) Mar/Apr 90, 159-165. 23 refs Government information enjoys a quite different status in Canada than it does in the USA. In the first instance, Crown copyright in Canada reserves copyright of government information to the government, while in the USA there is no copyright of federal government information. Consequently, privatisation of government information in Canada occurs only with the consent of government. The legal and administrative structure of privatization is discussed. At times, it has been proposed that Crown copyright be eliminated for the sake of freer access to government information. However, it is argued that the elimination of Crown copyright would be inconsistent with parliamentary government as it has developed in Canada, and that the elimination of Crown copyright would also have undesirable practical consequences, possibly including reduced access to goverment information. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Does privatization affect access to government information? Caponio, Joseph F.; Geffner, Janet Government Information Quarterly 5 (2) 1988, 147-154. 2 refs Defines and discusses privatization of government information and notes that privatization is effective when it is used 44 ------- appropriately, and ineffective when it is applied as a panacea to all management problems. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Government for sale: the privatization of federal information services. Levin, Marc A. Special Libraries 79 (3) Summer 88, 207-214. 15 refs Privatization, as a concept and as a political movement, is profoundly altering the federal information landscape. Explores the ideas and issues engendered by privatisation; the distinctions between the public and private sectors in the delivery of services; and the effects this policy may have upon the future federal role in the library/information arena. Federal experience with contracting out of agency libraries and the proposed sale of the National Technical Information Service are examined to raise critical questions respecting the limits on privatisation as a strategy for delivering tax-supported library and information services. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Putting a Price on Information Washington Post (WP) Sec A, p 22, col 1 Mar 22, 1990 Editorial comments on a court decision by which government information has been made more easily available to the news media and the public. (COURIER PLUS) Making the case for access: ALA needs you! Glass Schuman, Patricia; Schuman, P. Glass RQ, v29 (2) Winter 89, 166-172. 9 refs For almost a decade the American Library Association (ALA) has been fighting to protect the public's access to government information. The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has classified federal libraries as a commercial activity that can be privatized. This reflects attempts to reverse the growing federal budget deficit and close to 100 federal libraries are now run by commercial firms. The private sector is under no obligation to make government information available to the public at an affordable price. Discusses the dangers posed by a monopoly of government information by a handful of corporations and conglomerates many of which are foreign-owned. Calls on ALA members to help build safeguards for the public into the new version of the Paperwork Reduction Act now before Congress. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 45 ------- Articulating a compelling reason to take action. Heim, Kathleen Government Information Quarterly v6 (2) 1989, 149-152. 2 refs Contribution to a special section on the 1988 US Office of Technology (OTA) assessment report: Informing the nation: federal information dissemination in an electronic age. Argues that the OTA report, despite its affirmation of public access to information, is unlikely to cause a redeployment of resources unless librarians argue vociferously that there is a real need for this information, and that denying funding for electronic dissemination will create an unbridgeable chasm between those with the resources to buy information products and those without. J.S. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) The privatizing of government information: economic considerations. Kent, C.A. (Baylor Univ., Waco, TX) Government Publications Review, Vol. 16, Issue 2, p. 113-132, 1989 This article discusses the privatization of government information. It begins by delineating the cases for and against privatization and the various forms that privatization can and has taken, both in the United States and in other countries. The theory behind the government's provision of information services is presented. It concludes that the economic case for government activity in the information services area is to be found in the concept of merit goods. Since government information is a merit good providing external benefits that the market will not consider, government activity is justified. Major studies and positions taken regarding the privatization of government information are evaluated, including those of the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science and the Information Institute of America. A critique of the current government policy as contained in OMB Circular A-130 is provided. Finally, the article presents 10 conclusions and recommendations for further action and discussion. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Fee or free. Public interests and the Freedom of Information Act. O'Hanlon, N. Government Information Quarterly, Vol. 1, Issue 4, p. 365-378, 1984 This examination of agency fee waiver guidelines for public interest groups within the context of the Freedom of Information Act found that the lack of consistent guidelines inhibited the use of the act by public interest requesters. Efforts to limit types of information available under the act are described. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 46 ------- ACCESS MECHANISMS Government Printing Office Dissemination of Government Documents on CD-ROM: Report from the Govdoc-L Discussion List Kovacs, Diane K. CD-ROM Professional v4n4 PP: 36-38 Jul 1991 In accordance with Title 44 of the US Code, the Government Printing Office (GPO) acts as the clearinghouse for and central printer of government documents. Also created by Title 44 is the Depository Library System, which provides public access to government information. Some of the problems and solutions identified by depository librarians on the electronic mail-based discussion list - Govdoc-L - are provided. Govdoc-L has been described as one of the best modes of transmitting accurate and useful information about documents on CD-ROM to depository librarians and of providing feedback to the GPO about how libraries are coping with depository CD-ROMs. The policy of the federal government has been to avoid developing truly useful search software so as not to compete with private industry. This policy has prevented the compact disc products distributed by the GPO from being as useful as they could be. (ABI/INFORM) Documents to the people: access through the automated catalog. Bolner, M.S. (Louisiana State Univ., Baton Rouge, LA); Kile, B. Government Publications Review, Vol. 18, Issue 1, p. 51-64, Jan 1991 This paper examines the unfulfilled promises of the GPO/MARC tapes that were intended to improve the bibliographic control of government publications. Problems associated with the tapes that have prevented libraries from taking advantage of the cost-effectiveness of the tapes are reviewed. A project involving document librarians at Louisiana State University, Rice University, and Texas A&M University is described, which is intended to reverse this situation. The use of a commercial vendor by the librarians, corrections to the records on the GPO/MARC tapes, and measures taken to clean up the retrospective tapes and make them available to depository libraries are reviewed. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) A quiet revolution: community online systems. Maciuszko, K.L. Online, Vol. 14, Issue 6, p. 24-28,31-32, Nov 1990 A community computer network is described. Coin-Operated public terminals are explored. Services that interconnect with local government information networks are described as ideal for 47 ------- mass market penetration. Non-profit, community online systems are emphasized. The possibility of local governments setting up commercial databases is suggested. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Office of Technology Assessment perspectives on current D.8. federal information issues: the "Government Printing Office Improvement Act of 1990"; the "Federal Information Resources Management Act of 1989"; modernization of the National Technical Information Service. Wood, Fred B. Government Publications R 17:281-300 Jl/Ag '90 Three statements before US House and Senate Committees, Feb.-Mar., 1990. Includes evaluation and suggestions regarding the distribution and sale of public documents, the depository library program, and the Paperwork Reduction Act. (PAIS) The Defense Technical Information Center: a wealth of information for the public Johnson, S. Information Retrieval and Library Automation (US), Vol. 25, Issue 10, p.1-4, Mar 1990 This paper reviews the history and present operating status of the databases of the Defense Technical Information Center. These include the R&T work unit information system, the technical report database, the independent research and development, an manpower and training research information systems. Special collections and other services and products are examined. Project summaries are provided for several research and development efforts. The Scientific and Technical Information Library Automation System (STILAS) is also described as accommodating government libraries that deal with both MARC and COSATI. Machine translations are also reviewed. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Access to electronic government information through the GPO's depository library program: an update. McClure, C.R. (Syracuse Univ., Syracuse, NY) In Online/CD-ROM '90 Conference Proceedings, p. 117-124, 1990, Online, Inc., Weston, CT An overview of recent policy initiatives that may affect the Government Printing Office's (GPO) Depository Library Program (DLP)'s role in the dissemination of electronic government information is provided. Trends that could affect the public's access to electronic information through the DLP are identified. Decentralization of electronic dissemination of government information is suggested. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 48 ------- Depository Libraries in the 1990s Garner, D. Paper presented at Annual Conference of the American Statistical Association (Washington, D.C., October 6-10, 1989) The assumption is made that what the 1990s have in store for users of depository libraries will hinge on three crucial areas: (1) the reform and development of government information policies; (2) changing technology; and (3) the willingness and ability of the depository libraries to accommodate these changes. The uncertain role of the government as information disseminator is discussed, and the question is posed whether it is enough to make information available, or whether the government should be actively involved in promoting accessibility to its use. Effects of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 are assessed in this context. Also discussed is the Office of Management and Budget's proposed revision to Circular A-130, which states that government agencies should publish materials in electronic format in preference to traditional formats where appropriate, and that publishing agencies should rely on the private sector for dissemination. Potential roadblocks to making available government information in CD-ROM and online formats—in addition to their being an additional expense to depository libraries—are then discussed, including the lack of standardization. Examples of progress being made by depository libraries in combatting these difficulties are offered, e.g., through resource sharing and user education. (NTIS) Is government information in your library's future? Shill, Harold B.; Peterson, Sandra K. College & Research Libraries News 50 (8) Sept 89, 649-656. 23 refs Since many of the critical decisions involving electronic dissemination of government information may be made very shortly in the USA, it is vital that academic and research librarians understand the issues and stakes involved. Explores the background of the electronic dissemination of information controversy, examines the issues and initiatives which have emerged in 1989, and suggests actions which might be taken by concerned librarians to affect the outcome of the controversy. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Privatization and the availability of federal information in microform: the Reagan years. Snowhill, L. Microform Review, Vol. 18, Issue 4, p. 203-209, Fall 1989 Reviews the factors influencing the political and information climate related to privatization during the Reagan administration, and describes some of the resulting microform products and services that provide federal information. The effects of privatization and 49 ------- related information policies on the availability of federal information are evaluated and discussed. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Public access to government document microforms. Stratford, J. Microform Review, Vol. 17, Issue 5, p. 292-294, Dec 1988 The author examines criteria for the coordination of the administration of government document microcopy collections. Limitations to the integration of these collections are examined. Special problems of public access to these less than fully integrated collections are analyzed, including bibliographic access and physical access. Recommendations are made which would improve the public access. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) GPO's depository library program: building for the future Hernon, Peter; McClure, Charles R. Library Journal vl!3 (6) 1 Apr 88, 52-56 The Government Printing Office's (GPO) depository library program (DLP) is an important mechanism for public access to government information, in effect acting as a safety net. Nearly 1,400 libraries participate in the DLP, 2/3 being academic libraries. Both the government and member libraries benefit from the cooperative relationship and share expenses. The GPO acquires, classifies and catalogues titles and offers support services. In return member libraries house, service and provide access to depository materials. The vast majority of depository libraries are grossly understaffed and receive inadequate resources from their host institutions to carry out their responsibilities. Describes the DLP's dimensions, costs and benefits and examines the criticism of the DLP as a costly anachronism (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Scientific and technical information policy and the future of NTIS: hearings before the Subcommittee on Science, Research and Technology. Paul, James H. Government Information Quarterly 5 (2) 1988, 137-146 Summarizes the key policy issues, relating to the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), raised in the hearings on 'Federal Information Policy Mechanisms' held 14-15 July 87 by the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Subcommittee on Science, Research, and Technology. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 50 ------- The National Technical Information Service: a federal resource for health information and services Bracken, Darcia D. Journal of the American Society for Information Science v38 (1) Jan 87, p65-67 Paper in a collection reviewing the Federal government's involvement in and support of medical information. The National Technical Information Service (NTIS) addresses the issue facing all government information providers-justification of the activity on a cost/benefit basis; by being self-supporting. The user pays for the information provided on a cost-recovery basis. Within the NTIS a new program adds to the resources available to the health professional and/or consumer. The Center for the Utilization of Federal Technology (CUFT) links information, Federal technology resources, and new technologies to new users, including the private sector, to facilitate commercialization. Individual products and examples of successful projects addressing the health community and its concerns are described. The CUFT program is increasing its on-line availability to deal with the increasing volume of information available and the growing number of users in health-related fields as well as in other areas of Federal scientific and technical information (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) The new publishers Drexel Library Quarterly SOURCE: 20 (3) Summer 84, 1-103. refs. bibliog Issue devoted to the changing values applied to publishing by commercial pressures acting through the agency of computer and telecommunications technology. The following papers are presented: From pride to profit: one hundred years of American trade publishing, by Taylor Hubbard; Publishers, technological change, and copyright: Maintaining the balance, by Meredith A. Butler; Impact from US government printing on public access to government information, by Peter Hernon and Charles R. McClure; The changing world of scholarly publishing, by Naomi B. Pascal; Electronic delivery of scientific information, by Karen A. Hunter; Implications of New Publishing for library schools, by G. Edward Evans (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 51 ------- CONGRESS AND OMB Leislation This section presents a brief overview of public access requirements in current federal laws and OMB Circulars; and is followed by legislation pending before the current 102nd Congress. The pending legislation affects one or more of the laws currently in existence. Two major public access laws, the Freedom of Information Act and the Paperwork Reduction Act; and the Office of Management and Budget Circulars, the directives that govern Federal information policy are also reviewed. Selected Federal Legislation and OMB Circulars Administrative Procedures Act of 1966. Requires agencies to make available to the public all substantive rules and statements of general policy and to give notice of proposed rulemaking to provide an opportunity for interested persons to participate in the rulemaking. 1988 Trade Bill. Requires information to be made available to the public in electronic format. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 1966, last amended 1978. Provides access to records unless one of nine exemptions can be invoked . Government in the Sunshine Act 1976. Allows citizens to attend Federal government meetings unless an exemption is met. Paperwork Reduction Act 1980. Restricts the government to obtain only that information from citizens which will be used by the government to the fullest extent possible. Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) 1972. Allows individuals to go to FAC meetings and obtain meeting records unless one of the exemptions from the Government and the Sunshine Act is met. OMB Circular A-130 1985. Forbids Federal agencies initially from developing any electronic systems which duplicated those available in the private sector. This philosophy has since been reversed, and OMB is now encouraging diversity of private and government distribution systems. OMB Circular A-3 1922, last revised 1985. Requires agencies to implement a periodicals control system to eliminate unnecessary publications and institutes and annual review of periodicals by OMB. 52 ------- OMB Circular A-25, 1959. Provides general policies for developing charges (cost-reimbursable) for certain government services and property and requires agencies to annually report these charges. Relevant Legislation Pending Before The 102nd Congress As Of December 1991 HR280. Collins (D-IL), "Individual Privacy Protection Act of 1991,"102nd Cong.,1st session," Referred to the House Committee on Government Operations (CR p.H78), January 3, 1991. The purpose of this legislation is to amend the privacy provisions of title 5 United States Code to improve the protection of individual information and to re-establish a permanent Privacy Protection Commission as an independent entity in the Federal Government. HR656. Brown (D-CA), "High-Performance Computing Act of 1991," 102nd Cong, ,1st session, introduced and ordered to be reported by the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology, January 28, 1991. (CR s. CR p. H701-H702). Related measure, S272 introduced in Senate, January 24, 1991. Passed in House with amendments, July 11, 1991 (CR p. H5413-H5424). Amended in House, July 11, 1991 (CR p. H5424). Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, July 15, 1991 (CR p. S10039). Passed in Senate, September 11, 1991. (CR p. Sl2750-sl2751). A bill to provide for a coordinated federal research program to ensure continued United States leadership in high-performance computing. HR685. Wise (D-WV), "Data Protection Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session," January 29,1991 Introduced (CR p. H755-H757) and Referred to House Committee on Government Operations (CR p. H780). Amends the Privacy Act of 1974 to establish the Data Protection Board as an independent agency of the executive branch. Requires the Board to develop guidelines and regulations to implement the Privacy Act of 1974 and the Freedom of Information Act. Directs the Board to assist Federal agencies in implementing such Acts. Allows the Board to: (l) issue advisory opinions; (2) investigate compliance with such Acts; (3) report violations of such Acts to an agency, the President, the Attorney General, and the Congress; and (4) file comments with the Office of Management and Budget and any Federal agency on any proposal regarding such Acts. HR1423. Kleczka (D-WI), "Freedom of Information Public Access Improvement Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Introduced (CR p. H1726-H1727) and Referred to House Committee on Government Operations (CR p. H1757-H1758) March 13, 1991. The Congress finds that the Freedom of Information Act has served an essential role in informing the public on the activities of the Federal Government; identifying and deterring government 53 ------- waste, abuse, wrongdoing, and mismanagement; and disclosing significant information regarding public health and safety, and the environment. Amendments are needed to make the Freedom of Information Act simpler and less expensive for noncommercial interests and news organizations to use, to provide for more meaningful sanctions for its violation, to minimize delays in processing requests under the Act, to discourage misuse of the Act's exemptions by agencies and agency personnel, to eliminate exemptions from the Act that serve no legitimate governmental purpose and to provide for more effective Congressional review of proposed exemptions to the Act. HR1989. Valentine (D-NC), "American Technology Preeminence Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Referred to House Committee on Science, Space and technology, April 23, 1991 (CR p. H2467) . Passed with amendments by House, July 16, 1991 (CR p. H5459-H5490) (CR p. H5489-H5490). (Related Bill S1034 introduced in Senate, May 9, 1991.) Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation. July 17, 1991. Unanimous consent that the Senate strike all after the enacting clause of HR1989 (House companion bill) and insert in lieu thereof the text of S1034, as amended, by the Senate, agreed to by unanimous consent. (CR p. S18776) November 27, 1991. Measure as amended, passes Senate by unanimous consent. (CR p. S18776)(WR pp. 3579, 3601) November 27, 1991. Congress finds that in order to help United States industries to speed the development of new products and processes so as to maintain the economic competitiveness of the Nation, it is necessary to strengthen the programs and activities of the Department of Commerce's Technology Administration and National Institute of Standards and Technology. HR2772. Rose (D-NC), "GPO Wide Information Network for Data Online Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Referred to Committee on House Administration, June 26, 1991 (CR p. H5209). Agency possession of public information in electronic form has stimulated interest in public accessibility of that information through electronic networks. S272. Gore (D-TN), "High-Performance Computing Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Introduced and Referred to House Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation January 24, 1991. (CR p. S1198-S1203). Related measure (HR656 introduced in House, January 28, 1991. Passed by Senate with amendments September 11, 1991 (CR p. s 12744-S12746). Senate Speech by Simon supporting the High Performance computing Act. (CR p. s!2996-s!2997). Considered and amended by the House. (CR p. H10688-H10697) November 20, 1991. Brown (D-CA), substitute amendment, agreed to by voice vote. (see CR p.H10697) (CR p. H10688-H10697) November 20, 1991. Measure, as amended, passed in House by voice vote (title amended) (CR p. H10697) November 20, 1991. Submitted to the president (CR p. S18689)(WR p. 3525) November 27, 1991. Signed by the president, 54 ------- December 9, 1991 (PL 102-194 105 Stat. 1594). Amends the National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976 to direct the President to develop and implement a National High-Performance Computing Plan. Provides for: (1) establishment of a National Research and Education Network (NREN); (2) establishment of an advisory committee on high performance computing; (3) standards and guidelines for high performance networks; and (4) the responsibility of certain Federal agencies with regard to the Network. Directs each Federal entity involved in high-performance computing to submit, as part of its annual budget request, a report on the role of its activities with regard to the plan and relevant budget requests. Requires specified agencies to plan and relevant budget requests. Requires specified agencies to provide for the establishment of the Network by 1996 to link research and educational institutions, government, and industry in every state. 8343. Johnston (D-LA), "Department of Energy High-Performance Computing Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.1st session Introduced and referred to Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, February 5, 1991 (CR p. sl559-s!564). Reported to Senate as amended by Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, May 23, 1991 (CR p. S6652). Directs the President to develop a National High-Performance Computing and Communications Program; and establish a high-speed computer network, to be known as the National Research and Education Network (NREN). Provides for the establishment of High- Performance Computing Research and Development Collaborative Consortia. Requires NREN to link Federal departments and agencies, research and educational institutions, and industry. 81034. Hollings (D-SC), "American Technology Preeminence Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session , Introduced and referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CR p. 5614-5615) (CR p. s5646-s5648) , May 9, 1991. Reported to Senate as amended by Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, September 24, 1991. (CR p. S13577) . (Related Bill HR1989 introduced in the House April 23, 1991). Unanimous consent that the Senate strike all after the enacting clause of HR 1989 and insert in lieu thereof the text of S1034, as amended, by the Senate. (CR p. S18776) November 27, 1991. Unanimous consent to return the bill to the Senate Legislative Calendar. (CR p. S18776)(WR p.3579) November 27, 1991. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Commerce for activities relating to technology. Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act, the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980, the National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976, the National Technical Information Act of 1988, and other Acts to modify various requirements. Establishes: the High-Resolution Information Systems Advisory Board; and the Commission on Technology and Procurement. 55 ------- 81044. Glenn (D-OH), 'Federal Information Resources Management Act, "102nd Cong.,1st session, Introduced and referred to Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs, May 14, 1991 (CR p. s5752) (CR p. S5967-S5974). Amends the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 to reduce further the burden of Federal paperwork on the public. Outlines guidelines for review by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs of agency rulemaking. Requires agency records management programs to comply with Federal law governing records disposal. Authorizes the United States Archivist to examine agency records for historical preservation value. Authorizes appropriations to OIRA. 81139. Nunn (D-GA), "Paperwork Reduction Act of 1991," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Introduced and referred to Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs, May 22, 1991 (CR p. s6401-s6411). Speech by Senator Kasten in support of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1991 September 12, 1991, (CR p. S12847-12848). Identifies any agency initiatives to reduce the burden of the Federal collection of information associated with businesses, especially small businesses and those engaged in international competition; state and local governments; and educational institutions. HR3459. Owens (D-NY), "The Improvement of Information Access Act," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Introduced and referred to House Committee on Government Operations, October 1-3, 1991 (CR p.H7198) (CR p. E3241- E3245). The public should have timely, complete, equitable, and affordable access to government information. Federal agencies should use modern information technology for the benefit of citizens of the United States. Each executive department, military department, and independent establishment shall prepare by not later than February 1 of each year, and make freely available to the public upon request and at no charge, a report which describes the information dissemination policies and practices of the department or establishment, including plans to introduce new information products and services or discontinue old ones. HR3458. Owens (D-NY), "The Educational Research, Development, and Dissemination Excellence Act," 102nd Cong.,1st session, Introduced and referred to House Committee on Education and Labor, October 1, 1991 (CR p. H7198) (CR p. H7160-7161). Establishment of this act would improve education in the United States by promoting excellence in research, development, and the dissemination of information. This establishes the National Educational Research Policy and Advisory Board. The Board shall make a report to the President which identifies administrative and legislative changes necessary to improve the coordination and dissemination activities carried out without the Federal Government and to enable greater interaction among all entities engaged in 56 ------- such activities, including the Environmental Protection Agency. This shall be done no later than 18 months after the establishment of the Act. 81939. Leahy (D-VT), "Electronic Freedom of Information Improvement Act of 1191," introduced November 7, 1991, referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. The purpose of this bill is to improve public access to agency records and information. Documents shall be furnished without any charge, if disclosure of the information is in the public interest because such disclosure is likely to contribute directly or indirectly to public understanding of the Government and other matters of public interest. 81942. Glenn (D-OH), "Regulatory Review Sunshine Act of 1991," introduced November 7, 1991, referred to the Committee on Governmental Affairs. Ordered to be reported by Senate Govermental Affairs Committee by yea/nea vote: 8-3. (CR p. D1498) November 22, 1991. Senate speech by Sen. Glenn urging passage (CR p. S17995) November 23, 1991. A reviewing entity shall establish procedures to provide public access to information concerning each agency rulemaking activity under its review. Such information shall include a copy of all written communications, regardless of format, between the reviewing entity and any person not employed by the Federal Government. Freedom of Information Act Computer Friendly FOIA? Washington Post, Nov 11, 1991 Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Hank Brown (R-CO) sponsored two new bills to "improve" the Freedom of Information Act. They were introduced before the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on law and technology on November 7, 1991. S1940, "The Electronic FOIA Improvement Act of 1991," would define a "record" as "all books, papers, maps, photographs, data, machine-readable materials, digitized and electronic information regardless of physical form or characteristics." This would allow the requestor to decide whether he wants information in paper of electronic format, if the information exists in both forms. To encourage agencies to respond faster to FOIA requests, another section of this bill would allow the requested agency to keep half the fees. The money, which now goes to the Treasury, would have to be used to fund FOIA operations. The second bill, S1939, "The FOIA Improvement Act of 1991," proposes extending coverage to the offices of the president, the vice-president and Congress. It would also tighten several exemptions, including the one for national security information. It would permit withholding of classified information only if 57 ------- disclosure would cause "identifiable damage" to national security. These two new bills differ from HR1423, Freedom of Information Act Public Access Improvement Act of 1991. If passes it would strengthen simplify and tighten restrictions of FOIA. It is more general than the Senate FOIA bills, which if passed would extend coverage to the executive branch and Congress and allow those requesting information to select a paper or electronic format. HR1423, the house bill to reauthorize FOIA, was introduced March 13, 1991 and is currently stalled in the Government Operations Committee. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) There Goes the FOIA Greer, Edward Progressive (GTPR) v54n9 p!6-17 Sep 1990 The Federal judiciary seems disposed to do away with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by interpreting it out of existence. Several lawsuit cases that illustrate this point are discussed. (COURIER PLUS) Bush to Look at FOIA Anonymous Editor & Publisher (GEDP) v!23n!7 p8 Apr 28, 1990 An editorial argues that if President Bush is sincere about wanting to improve public access to information under the Freedom of Information Act, he should support bills that will extend the act to cover electronically stored information. (COURIER PLUS) Paperwork Reduction Act Cutting Paperwork for Small Business Times Mirror Company, 1991 The Paperwork Reduction Act (SB 1139) would reauthorize similar legislation from 1980, which required, among other things, that before requesting information from businesses, a government agency must conduct a thorough review to ensure that its requests are necessary and practical. Nunn will set an initial goal of 5% reduction in the forms that the federal government requires small businesses to complete. New reviews will be established for information requests and agencies will be required to use information more efficiently. "The cumulative effect of the government's information requirements is drowning the small-business community," Nunn said. "Of the $330 billion in estimated annual paperwork costs to business, one-third are borne by small businesses, which have the least resources for handling the paperwork load." 58 ------- Labor fears that new reductions will impede the free flow of information required to monitor business. But a large coalition of business groups are supporting Nunn's proposal. "Red tape has a real economic cost," said Leslie Aubin, a lobbyist for the National Federation of Independent Businesses. "It is not just an esoteric concept." (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Nunn Needs Help in Battle to Cut Federal Paperwork By: Durwood McAlister Atlanta Journal, July 2, 1991, p. A6 Columnist Durwood McAlister praises efforts by Sen. Bob Kasten (R-Wis.) and Georgia Sen. Sam Nunn to push a bill reaffirming the purpose of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980. A little more than 10 years ago, Congress took a hard look at the unbelievable mountain of paperwork imposed by federal bureaucrats on the general public and decided to do something about it. The result was the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980. It was an attempt to curb a bureaucracy run amok and it did at least slow it down. The Act gave the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) the power to monitor and review paperwork demands imposed on the public by federal agencies. Subsequently, bills have been introduced that would curb OMB's authority. A 1990 Supreme Court decision has removed about one- third of all government paperwork requirements from OMB's review. Sen. Kasten and Georgia Sen. Sam Nunn have joined forces to push a bill reaffirming the purpose of the original act and strengthening OMB's authority to attack government red tape. Among other things, their bill requires government forms to display an estimate of the time spent and the cost involved in filling out the form. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Stop Daydreaming About Deregulation Glenn, John Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Sec A, p 13, col 1 Jul 10, 1991 Sen John Glenn (D-OH) responds to the Jun 17, 1991 editorial "The Reregulation President," and argues that the American people will be paying for the deregulation policies of former President Ronald Reagan for the next 50 years. Glenn explains his policies on the Paperwork Reduction Act and the OMB Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. (COURIER PLUS) 59 ------- Restraining the Regulatory Herd Hasten, Robert Washington Times (WT) Sec G, p 3, col 3 Jun 27, 1991 Sen Robert Hasten (R-WI) says the federal regulatory bureaucracy has run amok, with red tape hitting small business owners the hardest. He discusses the Paperwork Reduction Action of 1980, which empowers the OMB to monitor paperwork demands federal agencies impose on the public. (COURIER PLUS) Trends in the legislative environment of records managers. Allen, D. P. Proceedings of the ARMA International 35th Annual Conference, San Francisco, CA, November 1990, p. 840-849, 1990, ARMA International, Prairie Village, KS Legislation affecting records management is discussed. The Paperwork Reduction Act is defined. Creation and duties of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) are described. Records management technology and legislation are examined. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) OMB Circular A-130 OMB Delays Release of Proposed Changes in A-130 By: Kevin Power Government Computer News, November 11, 1991, p. 10 OMB will wait until January to issue their latest proposal for updating Circular A-130. They issued the first set of changes in January 1990. Agencies rebuffed that proposal, charging its definitions were unclear and it hands the private sector too big a role in distributing government information. Unnamed OMB officials said they are reluctant to make final changes in the government's basic IRM policy document until Congress clarifies its IRM views with a revamped Paperwork Reduction Act and reauthorizes the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. However, neither Senator Glenn's (D-OH) S1044, Federal Information Resources Management Act (often referred to as the Paperwork Reduction Act) or Senator Nunn's (D-GA) S1139, Paperwork Reduction Act has yet to pass the Senate. OMB's latest reform proposal called for strengthening A-130's notification requirements, limiting development of agency electronic-dissemination products and maintaining agency inventories on such products. As for other circulars, A-3 on agency publications, and A-114 on audiovisual activities, will be incorporated into A-130. A-123 and A-127, which deal with agency internal controls and financial 60 ------- management systems, will be updated after OMB officials obtain more experience in carrying out requirements of the Chief Financial Officers Act. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Circular Game: OMB Readies Another Round By: J. Timothy Sprehe Federal Computer Week, Nov. 4, 1991, p. 15 OMB has announced the elimination of 11 or its 43 active circulars and the revision of another 20. As Director Richard Darman said "Duplicative, occasionally incomprehensible, OMB circulars have in some cases impeded, rather than facilitated, management of the federal government. We owe federal agencies and the public a much more straightforward, simple and serious system of OMB directives." OMB has stated it will issue a revision of OMB Circular No. A-130, the management of Federal Information Resources, January 31, 1992. Into A-130 OMB will fold Circular A-3, Government Publications, and Circular No. A-114, Audiovisual Activities. In 56 Federal Register (FR) 42, P. 9026, March 4, 1991, OMB announced plans to revise Circular A-130. 56 Federal Register (FR) 190, p. 49824, October 1, 1991, OMB announced plans to rescind some circulars. Among then A-3 and A-114, which will be folded into No. A-130. In this article OMB stated "proposed revisions to Circular No. A-130,..., will be published for public comment on or about January 31, 1992." During confirmation hearings on October 30, 1991, Mr. Frank Hodsoll, Deputy Director of Management, restated the revision conversation, Perter Wise, OMB contact person for A-130, confirmed OMB's commitment to the revision of A-130 "on or about January 31 of next year." (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) 61 ------- TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER Helping America Compete: The Role of Federal Scientific and Technical Information Office of Technology Assessment, Washington, DC., Jul 90 The special report assesses how Federal scientific and technical information (STI) can contribute to a more competitive America and what actions are needed to realize the potential. The report identifies and discusses a range of actions that can help the U.S. compete in the worldwide marketplace of ideas, products, and services, and to provide leadership on global issues like the environment. The report discusses the possibility of a presidential initiative on STI that would include a strengthened role for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, new mechanisms for STI leadership in the Federal research and development agencies, and the application of Federal STI to improve science education. The report also addresses government wide information policy issues relevant to STI, including the roles of the National Technical Information Service and Government Printing Office in electronic dissemination. (NTIS) Federal Scientific and Technical Information in an Electronic Age: Opportunities and Challenges; staff paper Performing Organization: Office of Technology Assessment, Washington, DC. Oct 89 The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology asked the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) to examine the opportunities and challenges facing the Federal Government with respect to the dissemination of scientific and technical information (STI). The paper presents the results of OTA's inquiry. OTA found that the government does not have an overall strategy on dissemination of STI. An overall strategy would help maximize the return on the substantial Federal research and development investment, and meet other national goals to which STI can contribute, such as improving the education of U.S. scientists and engineers, the international competitiveness of U.S. industry, and the strength of the U.S. civilian technology base. (NTIS) Federal information policy and U.S. competitiveness. Owens, C.T. Government Information Quarterly, Vol. 6, Issue 1, p. 43-46, 1989 Reviews the National Science Foundation's (NSF) activities in gathering and disseminating foreign scientific and technical information. Activities described include information processing by domestic and overseas offices; a pilot study to determine 62 ------- effective dissemination methods; online services; a program of survey visits to foreign facilities; and the development of NSF's Science and Technology Centers. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal technical information and US competitiveness. Meeds, opportunities/ and issues. Hill, C.T. Government Information Quarterly, Vol. 6, Issue 1, p. 31-38, 1989 Discusses the importance of competitiveness to the American economy and examines three areas where federal information policies affect American competitiveness: providing the private sector with technical information; making federal information resources available to industry; and restricting foreign access to those resources. For each area, current policy and issues needing resolution are discussed. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Federal information: foundation for national competitiveness. Clark, J.E. Government Information Quarterly, Vol. 5, Issue 4, p. 353-368, 1988 These seven papers address issues related to the dissemination of federal information to the private sector. General topics addressed include the impact of federal information policy on the flow of scientific and technical information (STI), business needs for STI, and the role of the National Technical Information Service. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) Support for information technology in science: the federal role. Bortnick, Jane. Government Information Quarterly 3:233-50 no 3 '86, tables chart Based on a report prepared for the Task Force on Science Policy, Committee on Science and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives. Federal funding of R&D in information technologies; funding and tax credits allowed for purchase and donation of information technology equipment; funding database development. (PAIS) Improving access to Japanese scientific and technical literature in the United States: the role of the federal government. Rosenbaum, Howard Government Information Quarterly v5 (1) 1988, 5-26. Currently, the USA lacks a clear and consistent information policy defining and regulating the Federal role in collection and dissemination of Japanese scientific and technical information (STI) to users in the public and private sectors. One long-term consequence of this situation involves negative impacts 63 ------- on American scientific and technological innovation and on competitiveness in the global economy. After a discussion of the existing legislative and regulatory environment shaping the Federal government's approach to Japanese STI activities, presents 5 policy options, each of which describes a different role for the Federal government. Recommends a combination of 2 options that will create the basis for a Federal information policy designed to support a self-sustaining STI infrastructure in the USA. That infrastructure will efficiently access and disseminate Japanese STI to public and private sector users. (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) The international flow of scientific and technical information Meredith, Barba J.(ed) Government Information Quarterly v3 (2) May 86, 163-178 Reprint of 'The international flow of scientific and technical information: a summary of the proceedings' prepared by Barbara J. Meredith from tape recordings of the 2nd Federal Library and Information Center Committee (FLICC) Forum on Federal Information Policies held at the Library of Congress, Washington, D.C., 27 Feb 1985. The following topics were discussed: an understanding of what drives federal information policy; international influences on federal information policies; the ferment in international telecommunications; and international influences on the flow of scientific and technical information (LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 64 ------- ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES Sharing Data for Environmental Results: Report of a conference Sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency National Governor's Association, 1989 The goals of the conference are to build and maintain the infrastructure needed for effective environmental data management and sharing (Phase I), and to develop and support the strategies necessary to integrate data across media and programs (Phase II). During the three-day conference, discussion covered the state of environmental data, the tools used to manage and analyze this information, and the strategies to spur data sharing and integration across all environmental programs. The conference represented a continuation of the three-year-old partnership between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the states. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Report Outlines Waste Dumping by Tankers on West Coast Coughlin, William P Boston Globe (BG) p 41, col 1 Aug 29, 1991 A report obtained by an Alaska state senator under the Freedom of Information Act says that oil tankers operated by some major oil shipping firms routinely pump toxic sludge and oily ballast water into the ocean from Panama to Alaska. (COURIER PLUS) Toxic Chemicals: EPA's Toxic Release Inventory is Useful but Can Be Improved U.S. General Accounting Office Report to Congress, June 27, 1991 The Toxic Release Inventory, available since 1989, is a valuable source of environmental information. Federal and state governments have used the data to enact laws designed to control and reduce toxic emissions, and the public availability of the data has prompted some companies to set emissions reduction goals. The inventory is an important source of environmental data and is available to the public through an online data base, a national report, a computer diskette, and other formats. Environmental and public interest groups use the data extensively. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) 65 ------- Environmental Protection: Meeting Public Expectations With Limited Resources U.S. General Accounting Office Report to the Congress, June 18, 1991 Drawing on past GAO work and a symposium held in June 1990, as well as analyses prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and others, this report discusses ways in which the federal government can achieve environmental goals more efficiently and effectively. As the 102nd Congress takes up legislation to create a Cabinet department for the environment, it may also wish to consider creating (1) a commission to study the desirability of a unified environmental statute and (2) a center for environmental information to help in the collection and application of data on environmental conditions and trends. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Hazardous Waste: Data Management Problems Delay EPA's Assessment of Minimization Efforts U.S. General Accounting Office Report to the Chairman, Subcommittee on Transportation and Hazardous Materials, Committee on Energy and Commerce, House of Representatives, June 13, 1991 GAO recommends that the Administrator, EPA, work with the states and industry to define data requirements to meet current and future information needs for b .irdous waste minimization. As part of this effort, GAO also recommends that EPA set out how these data requirements will be met; who will be responsible for data collection, analysis and management; and what the time frames and resources for completion of these tasks will be. To ensure that this new approach to measuring waste minimization meets congressional needs and expectations, the plan should be made available to the cognizant congressional oversight committees, which many want to explore the approach and options in more detail With EPA. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Pentagon's Toxic Waste Denounced Shepard, Scott Atlanta Constitution (ATC) Sec A, p 2, col 1 Mar 14, 1991 The Pentagon has created "thousands of points of blight," the Boston-based National Toxic Campaign Fund charged on Mar 13, 1991 in a report compiled from Pentagon documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act that uncovered evidence of 14,401 pollution sites at 1,579 military bases. (COURIER PLUS) 66 ------- Information, Please Fricker, Richard L ABA Journal (GABA) v76 p56-61 Jun 1990 Presents numerous cases of problems with the Freedom of Information Act. Requestors, including lawyer Larry Johns representing 220 plaintiffs exposed to radiation, have had FOIA requests denied or delayed. In many of these cases, the government claims national security would be endangered if the information were released. There is open speculation that the delays are meant to serve not "national security," but rather administration or CIA "image security." Public-interest groups calim the public's access to information is limited so that the government won't be held accountable for waste and violations. (COURIER PLUS) Exposure to radiation, (public access to government information) The Washington Post, November 29, 1989, Sec A, p. A25 By: Ann Devroy and Bill McAllister Independent researchers should be given access to secret government files on worker exposure to radiation at federal nuclear weapons plants, an advisory panel to Energy Secretary James D. Watkins has recommended. (NATIONAL NEWSPAPER INDEX) Romer Demands Flats Risk Data Kowalski, Robert Denver Post (DP) Sec A, p 6, col 1 Sep 14, 1989 Colorado Gov. Roy Romer has asked Energy Secretary James Watkins to make public information obtained in a continuing federal investigation of alleged illegal waste dumping at the Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant so the state can deal with any health hazards that might have resulted. (COURIER PLUS) EDAAS: An Expert System At The US Environmental Protection Agency For Avoiding Disclosure of Confidential Business Information Feinstein Jerald L., Siems Frederick Booz, Allen & Hamilton, MD, Expert Systems, Apr 85, v2, n2, p72(13) EPA uses an expert system designed to help screen freedom of information act (FOIA) requests. The design and operation of said system, entitled expert disclosure analysis and avoidance system, are discussed. Specifically, the system aids public information specialists to determine which information concerning the manufacture and distribution of toxic chemicals may be released to the public without compromising other sensitive company data which the EPA is legally bound to protect from public disclosure. (ENVIROLINE) 67 ------- Confidentiality and Freedom of Information for Epidemiological Data in Governmental Research. Nehls, G.J.; Hayes, C.G.; Nelson, W.C. 1981, 5 P.,Health Effects Research Lab., Research Triangle Park, NC The issues of confidentiality and freedom of information are discussed for studies involving health surveillance around point sources of pollution. The problems discussed are related to protecting data after a study has been initiated. Research studies describing the impact of confidentiality on response rates are discussed. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's current and proposed procedures for handling and releasing these data are presented. These can be used by other agencies in defining their security procedures. (INFORMATION SCIENCE ABSTRACTS) 68 ------- EPA/OARM CASE STUDIES Policy on Public Access to EPA Information (draft) Office of Administration and Resources Management - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1991 This policy establishes the principles governing public access to and dissemination of information gathered and maintained by EPA. Information that is restricted by Federal or State requirements for confidentiality, privacy, national defense or enforcement sensitivity shall be assembled to provide access while meeting requirements for restriction. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Recommendations for EPA's Public Access Strategy (Draft) Office of Information Resources Management - Information Access Branch, Environmental Protection Agency, January 23, 1991 The demand by the public to access information maintained by the government, particularly environmental information, has increased greatly within the past few years. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has experienced this intensifying demand through receipt of increasing numbers of requests for its information from members of the public. Congress has also been responding to the public's desire to obtain environmental information through proposing legislation that contains public access requirements for the Agency. These factors combined with a desire by EPA to use public education campaigns to facilitate the attainment of stated Agency goals (e.g, risk reduction and pollution prevention) highlight the importance of public access efforts within the EPA. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Public Access Manual (Draft) Office of Information Resources Management - Information Access Branch, Environmental Protection Agency and Booz Allen, & Hamilton, Inc., 1991 The manual provides information on EPA's Public Access Program & Strategy, its roles and responsibilities, goals and objectives. The Public Access Manual presents the steps to take to identify an audience and their information needs, and the media to use when delivering the message. Access points are discussed that can be used to disseminate the information gathered such as hotlines, clearinghouses, libraries, bulletin boards, dockets, and public information centers. Other distribution mechanisms to take into consideration are EPIC (EPA Publication and Information Center), EPA's Public Information Center (PIC) the Government Printing Office (GPO), the National Technical Information Center (NTIS). 69 ------- Partnership opportunities with states, other federal agencies, private interest groups and corporations are also mentioned. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) Interagency Conference on Public Access: A Summary Report Office of Information Resources Management, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Solomons, MD, May 20-21, 1991 The conference offered departmental and agency officials an opportunity to discuss issues surrounding public access to government information, particularly that which is collected or generated and maintained in electronic format; and to share experiences to date. Congress is increasingly requiring that specific databases generated by an agency for its own use be made available to the general public electronically, as with the EPA Toxics Release Inventory (TRI). In addition, departments and agencies are more aware of their obligations to make information available in the format in which they are using it. Public interest groups, professional associations, academia, libraries and the press are demanding access to government information in electronic format. There is concern that movement to electronic media will eventually limit access to those with the means of accessing it. This in turn raises a fear that citizens may not have access to the information necessary to effectively exercise their rights in a democratic society. (HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY) 70 ------- |