“Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Proposes to Strip Public Participation – What You Need to Know”

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has proposed a significant change in the way the department conducts business by stripping public participation from many of its activities. This move comes at a time of major upheaval across federal health agencies and as the public eagerly awaits Kennedy’s promise of “radical transparency” within the department.

The proposal, outlined in a document posted in the Federal Register, states that HHS will no longer allow members of the public to comment on the agency’s plans. This change is set to be formally published in the register on Monday, March 3.

According to the statement, HHS argues that public input is not necessary when making decisions related to agency management, personnel, public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts. The department can also bypass public participation if it deems the process impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.

The decision to rescind the long-standing practice of involving the public in rulemaking processes has raised concerns among open government advocates and former HHS officials. Critics argue that this move could hinder transparency and accountability within the department.

Kennedy’s justification for the change, citing excessive responsibilities imposed by the public participation process, has been met with skepticism by legal experts and former government officials. The decision to rescind the Richardson Waiver, which allowed for public involvement in HHS rulemaking, is seen as a step backward in terms of good governance practices.

While the policy change may not immediately result in legal challenges, it could face opposition from Congress or the public. HHS plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact millions of Americans, making public engagement essential for ensuring that decisions are in the best interest of the public.

Overall, Kennedy’s proposal to limit public participation in HHS activities has sparked debate and raised questions about the future of transparency and accountability within the department. The decision could have far-reaching implications for how HHS operates and interacts with the public in the future.