"The White House today [Tuesday] released a wide-ranging plan to strengthen the work of government scientists and protect them from political meddling.

The document from the Office of Science and Technology Policy aims to create a “broad culture of scientific integrity,” extending beyond scientists to include people who make high-level policy decisions and communicate research to the public. The plan also seeks to impose consequences on senior officials who break the rules.

“This report is a comprehensive Federal assessment of what’s needed to protect science — and scientists and technologists — within the U.S. government, and a clear government-wide policy statement calling for decision-making at all levels to be informed by science without interference,” Eric Lander, who leads OSTP, said in a statement.

The report comes from a task force of five dozen government scientists, helmed by Alondra Nelson, OSTP’s deputy director. It included traditional science-focused agencies and other offices that produce and handle scientific evidence and research."

Kelsey Brugger reports for E&E News January 11, 2022. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Biden Administration Calls On Agencies To Better Guard Against Political Influence On Science" (The Hill) [3]

"White House Office of Science & Technology Policy Releases Scientific Integrity Task Force Report" (White House release) [4]

"White House Task Force Aims To Promote Scientific Integrity" (UPI) [5]

"Remember Sharpiegate? The White House Has A Plan To Prevent Future Shenanigans." (Grist) [6]

"Protecting The Integrity Of Government Science" (National Science And Technology Council) [7]

"Top Officials Meddling in Science a Threat, White House Warns" (Bloomberg Environment) [8]