USDA lifts gag order: report

Last edited Wed Jan 25, 2017, 04:42 PM - Edit history (1)

Source: The Hill

The Department of Agriculture has reportedly lifted an order that called for scientists and employees of its research arm not to release any of its work to the public.

After a report that the agency had told staff to stop releasing any "news releases, photos, fact sheets, news feeds, and social media content, BuzzFeed reported that another memo was sent Tuesday night from a top official for the departments Agricultural Research Service that the original order should not have been issued and is hereby rescinded. Prior to the memo, the agency disavowed the gag order, calling it flawed and indicating that new guidance would be sent to its employees.

This internal email was released without Departmental direction, and prior to Departmental guidance being issued, the USDA said in a statement.

ARS will be providing updated direction to its staff. ARS values and is committed to maintaining the free flow of information between our scientists and the American public.





Read more: http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/316015-agriculture-department-lifts-order-for-lockdown-on-its-research-arm