Presidential Transitions, Arms Transfers, and More from CRS
A range of presidential transition policy issues — including records management, budget preparation and the role of executive orders — is explored in a new report from the Congressional Research Service. See “Presidential Transitions: Issues Involving Outgoing and Incoming Administrations” (pdf), October 23, 2008.
Other noteworthy new CRS reports obtained by Secrecy News that were not previously available online include the following (all pdf).
“Status of a Senator Who Has Been Indicted for or Convicted of a Felony,” October 22, 2008.
“Transatlantic Regulatory Cooperation: Background and Analysis,” October 22, 2008.
“Would an Influenza Pandemic Qualify as a Major Disaster Under the Stafford Act?,” October 20, 2008.
“The Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror Operations Since 9/11,” updated October 15, 2008.
“The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act: Implementation and Proposed Amendments,” October 22, 2008.
“Conventional Arms Transfers to Developing Nations, 2000-2007,” October 23, 2008.
As humans expand our geographic reach, encroach on untouched natural territories, and interact more with animal populations, we will encounter novel zoonotic diseases that threaten the human body. The sooner we act to address these risks, the better.
This report serves as a landscape assessment and toolbox from which local governments can negotiate an informed position when it comes to the levers available to them and includes a first-of-its kind analysis of eight executed community benefits agreements.
When a hurricane hits, it’s all hands on deck – that goes for federal data, too. Pulling back from our investments in timely, accurate, and accessible public data will only make us less prepared and put us all at greater risk.
This is bigger than a singular elimination of race and ethnicity questions. It could accelerate the second wave of widespread reductions to demographic data, leaving public health officials with even less information to deliver better health outcomes for all Americans.