Data Access

CRE Analysis

17. Won't the new Data Access provisions discourage researchers from accepting federal funds in conducting cutting-edge research?

Comment by Council on Government Relations

CRE Response:

It is unclear what exactly the Council on Government Relations is claiming will drive researchers away from cutting edge research. Their comment appears to claim that "early forced release of raw data" will permit the public to "unfairly attack the reputations of individuals involved in research."

COGR's comment (paragraph (a), "Impact on Scientific Research") is premised on an early release of data that is far more adverse to researchers than has been proposed. In its February 4, 1999 proposed revision, OMB indicated that only data relating to "published research findings" would have to be disclosed, and COGR's comment essentially argues for a narrow definition of "published."

A combination of factors suggests that such scenario is ultimately unlikely. First, through careful crafting of the OMB and agency regulations, most if not all of the concerns of the scientific community may be addressed. Second, the draw of research funding is likely to be sufficient to overcome researcher misgivings about sharing data. In addition, alternative sources of funding will still exist for researchers who are unwilling to work within the reasonable constraints of the new data access law.