We’re protecting individual privacy

The U. S. Department of Agriculture declined to provide an opposing view. Statements posted recently on the website of USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ( APHIS):

The review of APHIS’ website has been ongoing, and the agency is striving to balance the need for transparency with rules protecting individual privacy. In 2016, well before the change of administration, APHIS decided to make adjustments to the posting of regulatory records. In addition, APHIS is currently involved in litigation concerning, among other issues, information posted on the agency’s website.

While the agency is vigorously defending against this litigation, in an abundance of caution, the agency is taking additional measures to protect individual privacy. These decisions are not final. Adjustments may be made regarding information appropriate for release and posting. ...

Based on our commitment to being transparent, remaining responsive to our stakeholders’ informational needs, and maintaining the privacy rights of individuals, APHIS is implementing actions to remove documents it posts on APHIS’ website involving the Horse Protection Act and the Animal Welfare Act ( AWA) that contain personal information covered by the Privacy and Freedom of Information Acts or guidance from the U. S. Department of Justice regarding them.

These documents include inspection reports, research facility annual reports, regulatory correspondence ( such as official warnings), lists of regulated entities, and enforcement records ... that have not received final adjudication.

In addition, APHIS will review and redact, as necessary, the lists of licensees and registrants under the AWA, as well as lists of designated qualified persons licensed by USDA- certified horse industry organizations to ensure personal information is not unlawfully released to the general public.

Those seeking information from APHIS regarding inspection reports, research facility annual reports, regulatory correspondence and enforcement records should submit Freedom of Information Act requests for that information. Records will be released when authorized and in a manner consistent with the FOIA and the Privacy Act as well as the latest guidance received from the Justice Department.