The next clearance package should reflect the requested update to the confidentiality pledge to make clear that willful disclosure of identifiable information about a respondent or their farm operations is permitted is permitted if the disclosure is made with the express consent of the respondent. It's a minor distinction and is not enough to require USDA to update their current materials, but I would like to see this language when it comes time for a renewal in 2028.
table that charts list comparision
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
08/31/2028
36 Months From Approved
08/31/2025
56,725
0
54,730
11,571
0
11,882
0
0
0
The chemical use data collection activities outlined in this clearance request will be carried out through cooperative agreements with State Departments of Agriculture, land-grant universities, or other organizations with which NASS has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The surveys included in the Information Collection Request provide flexibility for cooperators to address current trends in the farming industry within their respective States. The Field Crop Production Practice and Chemical Use Surveys will be conducted on an established schedule, contingent upon funding from the cooperators.
US Code:
7 USC 2204
Name of Law: General Duties of Secretary
PL:
Pub.L. 115 - 435 302
Name of Law: Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency
US Code:
7 USC 3601.1
Name of Law: General Statement of Public Information
US Code:
7 USC 2276
Name of Law: Confidentiality of Information
The estimated burden is now 11,571 hours, which is 311 hours less than the previous approval. The number of responses has increased to 56,726, up by 1,995 from the previous approval. This reduction in burden and increase in responses are due to program changes in the data collection plan for the Maryland Pesticide Usage Survey and the elimination of Mississippi's Screener form.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
Non-Responses