White House issues policy on political interference with federal scientists

White House officials on Dec 17 issued long-delayed guidance for federal agencies on protecting scientific research from political interference.

The rules, which President Obama ordered the Office of Science and Technology Policy to produce by summer 2009, are the administration's response to years of allegations that agency appointees have forced researchers to suppress facts on controversial issues, such as global warming and stem-cell research, for political reasons. The rules include several provisions that affect federal employees, including stipulations on hiring, professional development, media relations and participation in scholarly societies. Agency heads must report to the White House by April 17, 2011, on steps they have taken to implement the new policies. Under the rules, agency leaders are supposed to strengthen the credibility of government research by ensuring applicants selected for federal science jobs are chosen based on their scientific and technical knowledge, credentials, experience and integrity. In addition, officials must set clear standards on conflicts of interest for employees and rules for protecting whistleblowers.