Union of Concerned Scientists issues report card on communication openness in 15 federal agencies

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From: beSpacific

[The media and the public always desire communication openness from their federal agencies for the sake of accountability. -David Weller]

Public Interest Group Issues Report Card on Federal Agency Media Policies

October 18, 2008

"The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) today issued a report card grading 15 federal agencies on their policies controlling communication between staff scientists and the news media and the public. The report found significant inconsistencies and confusion among agency media policies and their implementation. Some agency policies encourage free speech, but the agencies stifle communication. Other policies are weak, but in practice the agencies allow scientists to speak freely. And although overall many agency policies are deficient, UCS has seen some positive changes in recent years.

• Download the full report
  
• View methodology and primary documents
  
• View additional information on selected agencies
  
• Enlarged version of the summary chart

Permanent Link Topic(s): Free Speech, Freedom of Information, Government Documents

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Tell the FCC NO on fewer mass media owners

Common Cause is leading an email campaign on the issue of media consolidation. Recent news says that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has scheduled a vote on December 18th on whether to allow fewer mass media companies such as major news networks, radio stations and daily newspapers, than we have now.

Further relaxing media consolidation rules means fewer voices on the airwaves and less variety of viewpoints and information. We, the people, must enjoy free speech in all of its forms, including radio, tv, newspapers and more. We need a large variety of owners in our local and national news and entertainment media. If you agree, please take action here by contacting the FCC through the Common Cause website; the larger the number of letters sent in this campaign, the greater the chance for success.

Tell your U.S. Representative to oversee the FCC

Common Cause has released an action alert on the issue of media consolidation. They are fighting unethical moves by the Federal Communications Commission to hastily pass media ownership rules. Here is their explanation; if you agree, please take action at this webpage:

FCC Chairman Kevin Martin wants his agency to make crucial decisions about media ownership rules behind closed doors and without public input. That’s what happened in 2003, until Congress and the courts stepped in. We shouldn’t let history repeat itself.
Contact your Representative today, and let them know that if the FCC won’t listen to the public, Congress can and should exercise its oversight power.
These media ownership rules are too important to be kept secret. We need full disclosure and a robust public debate before the FCC votes to make any changes that would allow Big Media to get even bigger.