Washington, D.C. – March 5, 2024 – Ensuring that the government uses the most reliable, valid, and relevant information is integral for effective evidence-informed decision-making, including by aligning with the principles that enable effective use of information and evidence. In February 2024, the House Oversight and Reform Committee unanimously reported to the full House of Representatives by a 41-0 vote the Information Quality Assurance Act (H.R. 7219). The bipartisan Information Quality Assurance Act, co-sponsored by Representatives Lisa McClain (R-MI) and Katie Porter (D-CA), extends the principles of the 20-year-old Information Quality Act and the expansive constructs from the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act.
The proposed legislation requires that agencies use the “best reasonably available information and evidence” when formulating rules and guidance. The legislation also includes provisions for certain information to be publicly available, to the extent possible. The Information Quality Assurance Act necessitates timely disclosure of this information prior to agency actions, granting the public the opportunity to review and facilitate compliance. By requiring agencies to use the "best reasonably available information and evidence" when creating regulations and policies, the Information Quality Assurance Act encourages federal entities to leverage and integrate modern data collection, management, analysis, and information-sharing practices into their operating procedures.
Nick Hart, President and CEO of the Data Foundation, issued the following statement:
Good governance demands that we use information of the highest quality when creating policies that impact people's lives and livelihoods. The Information Quality Assurance Act facilitates the transparent use of valid and reliable data and evidence in key government decisions, a key theme of the Data Foundation’s advocacy efforts in recent years. Continuing to set expectations for high-quality data and evidence in our society’s decision-making processes in Washington will lead to better outcomes for the American people. The Data Foundation enthusiastically endorses the Information Quality Assurance Act and urges Congress to pass this important legislation to support the use of high-quality data and evidence in decision-making.
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About the Data Foundation: The Data Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that seeks to improve government and society by using data to inform public policymaking. Our research and educational activities proactively and rapidly address relevant, emerging data-related needs in the country with the goal of devising realistic solutions, accelerating policy coordination, and advancing innovation. The Data Foundation values diversity and transparency in pursuit of an equitable, data-informed society. In 2023, the Data Foundation was recognized by Candid Guidestar with the Platinum Seal of Transparency. To learn more, visit www.datafoundation.org.