Requests for Comment on Federal Data Collections
Economists’ capacity to produce meaningful, reproducible, impactful analyses is a function of their access to current, reliable, detailed data. The Federal government is a major supplier of data used in economic research – particularly via the US Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Bureau of Economic Analysis.
When Federal statistical agencies want to revise existing data collections or launch new ones, they are required by the to clear their plans through the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). As part of this process, agencies issue requests for comment on planned changes in data collections. Requests may solicit input on specific survey questions, data collection methods, plans for data release and access, or methods of preventing disclosure of respondents’ identities. Or they may ask general questions about the utility of the data and how it could be improved. Some open requests for comment on data collections that may be of broad-based interest will be listed on this page.
In the experience of 蝌蚪网’s Committee on Economic Statistics (蝌蚪网Stat), knowledgeable comments from 蝌蚪网 members are highly valued by federal agencies, especially when they address data-collection features that complicate researchers’ ability to use the data to answer important questions, and when they identify changes that will improve the utility of the data for meeting information needs. To help 蝌蚪网 members make the most of opportunities to comment, 蝌蚪网Stat has developed a primer on the public comment process, which explains the why, what, and how of providing comments.
Please consider replying to requests that are up your alley! Your knowledgeable, thoughtful, actionable comments can help improve data quality, increase data access, open up new research opportunities, and contribute to ever-more robust economic research.
No requests are currently posted, but please check back for new requests.