Modernizing the Federal Statistical System

The purpose of this project is to facilitate the development of options for strengthening the federal statistical system in the current policy environment. The steering group, which includes Bill Beach, Erica Groshen, Nancy Potok, Shelly Martinez, Jen Park, Steve Pierson, and Michelle Crosby (Connie Citro is consulting for the project), plans to host three meetings and produce a thought paper to ground broad discourse and advise on the strategic implementation of a structure suited to the needs of a 21st century federal statistical system.

The project held its first meeting on June 24th. The objective was to frame discussions about the optimal structure for a 21st century federal statistical system. To encourage agile, informed, and candid conversation, a small number of individuals deeply invested in the production and use of federal data were invited. As a courtesy, invitees did not include current federal staff. A document prepared in advance of the June 24 meeting is available here and a high-level summary of the meeting will be posted soon.

The steering group is currently reviewing output from the June 24th meeting to frame the second meeting. For the next two meetings, broad engagement will be essential for the success of the project. If funded, the period of activity for this project is June-October 2025.

For more information, contact ASA Director of Science Policy Steve Pierson and stay tuned to this site for updates and calls for input as the project advances.