Applying the Information Quality Act (44 U.S.C. § 3516) Section 515

USDA Step-by-Step instructions for submitting Correction of Information

Dept. of Interior Policy  for Information Quality

BLM Step-by-Step Instructions (guidelines) for Submitting a Request for Correction

A Grok request brought back results for Submitting a Request for Correction

The Information Quality Act (IQA), often referenced under 44 U.S.C. § 3516 note, requires federal agencies like the Department of the Interior (DOI) and its bureaus, including the BLM, to ensure the quality, objectivity, utility, and integrity of information they disseminate.

If you believe information disseminated by the BLM does not meet these standards, you can submit a request for correction. The BLM follows guidelines issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), DOI, and its own specific procedures.

Follow these steps to submit your request:

1. Identify the Disseminating Office: Determine which specific BLM office, program, or field office disseminated the information in question. This could be a state office, district office, or headquarters program (e.g., related to land management, energy, or environmental reports). You can find office contacts on the BLM website or by contacting BLM's general information line.

2. Prepare Your Request for Correction: Draft a written request (letter or email) that clearly states it is a "Request for Correction" under the Information Quality Act and BLM's Information Quality Guidelines. Include the following required elements:

   • A specific reference to the information being challenged (e.g., cite the document title, publication date, page numbers, or URL).

   • A detailed statement explaining why you believe the information fails to meet the standards in the BLM, DOI, or OMB guidelines (e.g., it lacks objectivity, utility, or integrity; provide evidence of errors, biases, or omissions).

   • An explanation of how you are personally affected by the challenged information (e.g., impacts on your business, property, or decision-making).

   • Your name, contact information (address, phone, and/or email), and preferred method of response. This is used solely for responding to your request.

   • Optionally, include suggestions for how the information could be corrected, along with any supporting evidence or documentation to strengthen your case.

3. Submit the Initial Request: Send your prepared request directly to the BLM office that disseminated the information. Use their specific contact information (e.g., email or mailing address for that office). If you're unsure of the exact office, you can start by contacting the BLM Information Quality Coordinator or the headquarters for guidance. Submission can be via mail, email, or fax, but ensure it's in writing.

4. Await the Initial Response: The disseminating office has 60 calendar days to review your request and provide a written response. This response will explain whether the BLM agrees to correct the information, the reasons for their decision, and any actions taken or planned.

5. File an Appeal if Dissatisfied (Challenge the Response): If you are not satisfied with the initial response, you can challenge it by submitting a written appeal (referred to as a "challenge" in BLM guidelines). Prepare a document similar to your initial request, including why you disagree with the response. Send it to:

   • Assistant Director, Information Resources Management

   • Bureau of Land Management

   • 1849 C Street, NW

   • Washington, DC 20240

   • Or by email: BLM_WO_Information_Quality_Guidelines@blm.gov (mailto:_WO_Information_Quality_Guidelines@blm.gov)

The BLM will review the appeal and provide a final decision, which may include additional time extensions if needed (as seen in historical cases).

Additional Notes

• Burden of Proof: You bear the responsibility to provide persuasive evidence supporting the need for correction and any proposed fixes.

• No Guaranteed Outcome: The BLM may deny your request if it determines the information meets quality standards. Historical examples on the BLM website (e.g., responses to requests on sage-grouse conservation or oil shale projects) show varied outcomes, including denials, partial corrections, or further reviews.

• Contact for Questions: For clarification, reach out to the BLM Bureau Records Officer at cjwells@blm.gov or (202) 912-7561.

• Track Your Submission: Keep records of all correspondence, as the process can involve extensions or additional information requests.

• If the information was disseminated by DOI more broadly (not BLM-specific), you may need to submit to DOI's Information Quality Coordinator instead, following similar steps but addressing it to the relevant DOI bureau or office.

This process ensures your request is handled formally and in compliance with federal guidelines. If your situation involves urgent or influential scientific information, note that additional peer review standards may apply under OMB rules.

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