Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos
Summary
This executive order, issued March 20, 2025, aims to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse by removing barriers to federal employees accessing government data and promoting inter-agency data sharing. It mandates agency heads to ensure designated officials have full and prompt access to unclassified agency records, data, software, and IT systems. The order also requires agencies to rescind or modify guidance that hinders information sharing and to review regulations governing unclassified data access.
Expected Effects
The order will likely result in increased data sharing and collaboration among federal agencies. This could lead to more efficient identification and elimination of waste, fraud, and abuse in government programs. The order also seeks unfettered access to data from state programs receiving federal funding, potentially increasing oversight and accountability.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced detection of overpayments and fraud through better data analysis.
- Streamlined government operations by eliminating bureaucratic duplication and inefficiency.
- Improved coordination among agencies in addressing administration priorities.
- Increased accountability of state programs receiving federal funding.
- More informed decision-making based on comprehensive data access.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for privacy violations if data access is not carefully managed.
- Risk of data breaches and security vulnerabilities with increased data sharing.
- Increased burden on agencies to comply with the new data access requirements.
- Possible resistance from agencies reluctant to share data.
- Potential for misuse of data for political purposes.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The executive order's focus on efficiency and reducing waste aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble. However, the order's potential impact on individual privacy and data security raises concerns under the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The order also directs agency heads to take actions 'to the maximum extent consistent with law,' suggesting an awareness of potential legal limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).