Trust in Federal Statistics: Key Themes from the Public Forum

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has proposed a new regulation to codify principles of integrity for federal statistical agencies.

Several common themes emerged that are worth highlighting. Speakers overwhelmingly praised OMB’s efforts to reinforce autonomy, transparency, and confidentiality protections for federal statistical agencies through this regulation. Trusted, high-quality data is essential for evidence-based policymaking that serves the public good. As such, it is crucial that statistical activities remain free from political pressures and perceived manipulation.

However, commenters identified several issues that require careful consideration by OMB as it finalizes this regulation. For example, some noted ambiguity in the definition of a statistical agency’s “parent agency,” which should align with the agency's designated mission rather than administrative location. Others emphasized the need for clear protocols and remedies focused on problematic behavior by parent agencies, so that lapses in one department do not unjustly undermine work by statistical staff. 

Multiple participants stressed the importance of engaging marginalized communities in shaping data collection and analysis. Speakers also called for transparency in methodologies and cautioned against changes that could distort longitudinal continuity in statistical measures. Speakers also noted that statistics, and those who produce them, should reflect America’s full diversity.

Looking ahead, speakers encouraged OMB to leverage new technologies to derive insights from non-traditional data sources while maintaining rigorous privacy safeguards. Several commenters suggested provisions to facilitate coordination and collaboration between agencies, such as clarifying data stewardship roles, could unlock more relevant, timely data to inform policy priorities.

Overall, the forum revealed both widespread support for efforts to further support the independence and autonomy of federal statistical activities as well as areas where additional clarification and forward-looking guidance could help OMB strengthen public trust and maximize the value of this important national resource. Our organization looks forward to engaging further with OMB and other stakeholders on this vital issue!