Implementation of the Paperwork Reduction Act

Gao ID: 116697 October 21, 1981

Comments were presented on the GAO evaluation of the effectiveness with which the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 has been implemented. The work has not proceeded smoothly. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has denied GAO access to documents and information essential to reaching a full understanding of its processes and an assessment of its efforts. However, GAO found that progress has been slow and in many areas it has been nonexistent. OMB has failed to provide the forceful leadership and guidance needed to create the momentum for timely and effective implementation of the Act. OMB is entangled in case-by-case reviews of individual agency actions and is not giving overall guidance to the agencies. In addition, little or no attention is being given to many critical elements of the Act. GAO believes that, if the problems are not corrected, the reduction in Federal paperwork burdens, the savings, and the improved productivity envisioned by Congress will not be achieved.



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