SciPol project

Provides that EPA should whenever possible rely on studies for which all underlying data and models are publicly available to promulgate “significant regulatory decisions,” and assigns lower weight to the evidence, findings and conclusions of any studies that are based on confidential information that cannot be publicly disclosed.

The New York Times reported that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had drafted a final version of a regulation first proposed in spring  “Strengthening Transparency in Regulatory Science” (Transparency Rule).

The Transparency Rule was first proposed in spring 2018 under EPA’s general authority to order its own affairs provided by the Federal Housekeeping Statute, 5 USC 301.  The proposed rule provided that EPA should, whenever possible, rely only on studies for which all underlying data and models are publicly available to promulgate “significant regulatory decisions.” and assigns lower weight to the evidence, findings and conclusions of any studies that are based on confidential information that cannot be publicly disclosed.

Many philanthropic or community science organizations around the country have made it their mission to improve their local community through science and science advocacy. By joining or starting a local science community group, you can find a way to extend your impact beyond the bench.

Some locally based science organizations have helped to support underrepresented minorities to the sciences; others have helped advocate for the preservation of natural resources. Find more examples and resources to help you find or start your own local community science organization by looking for a local branch of your relevant science societies, reading examples from other scientists, or participating in programs like the AAAS Community Engagement Fellows Program.