Proposal to Strip Public Participation in HHS Business

SOURCE www.statnews.com
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is proposing to strip public participation from much of the business his department conducts, arguing that seeking public input is impracticable or unnecessary for certain decisions.

Key Points

  • Kennedy's proposal aims to limit public participation in decisions related to agency management, personnel, and public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts
  • Historically, HHS has involved the public in its rulemaking process but is now rescinding the Richardson Waiver
  • Critics argue that the move could lead to less transparency and accountability in HHS operations

Pros

  • Efficiency in decision-making process
  • Flexibility to adapt quickly to legal and policy mandates

Cons

  • Reduced transparency in HHS operations
  • Potential for decisions to be made without public oversight