OMB has issued a memo calling on agencies to take a number of steps aimed at reducing paperwork internally as well as reducing the burden they impose on others.
It issued a memo outlining steps agencies should take related to an executive order – #13563 – on regulatory reform, as well a subsequent order – #13610 – specifically targeting paperwork reduction.
OMB says agencies should eliminate any redundant and unnecessary collections, use simplified and shorter forms, exempt small businesses from reporting requirements or streamline them, use email rather than snail mail and use fillable / fileable forms, and reduce the frequency of information collection.
OMB said it is also requiring agencies to undertake new initiatives to produce significant reductions in paperwork and reporting burdens, and cited recent steps agencies have taken that it says have produced results.
For example, Education simplified its application for federal student aid and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration implemented a rule that reportedly cuts 1.9 million hours a year in burdens imposed on employers.
