SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A), written comments and/or suggestions from the public and affected agencies are invited to address one or more of the following points: (1) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the function of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (2) The accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (3) Ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (4) Ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Proposed Collection Title: NIH Intramural Reporting of Research Misconduct (IRRM) Web Form, Office of Intramural Research (OIR), Office of the Director (OD), National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Need and Use of Information Collection: NIH Intramural Research Program scientists are expected to uphold the highest standards of research integrity, and NIH takes allegations of research misconduct seriously. Consistent with NIH policy and 42 CFR part 93, the proposed web-based reporting form supports NIH's responsibility to evaluate such concerns fairly and effectively. The secure, standardized form facilitates submission of allegations, helps protect sensitive information regardless of reporting method, and enables the Agency Intramural Research Integrity Officer (AIRIO) to assess concerns and take appropriate action. It also supports efforts to preserve relevant research records, protect research personnel, and, when requested and permitted, safeguard the complainant's identity appropriately.

Upon receipt of a report submitted through the IRRM Form, the Agency Intramural Research Integrity Officer (AIRIO) will promptly assess whether the allegation falls within the definition of research misconduct under PHS regulations and NIH policy, meets jurisdictional requirements, and provides sufficiently credible and specific information so that potential evidence of research misconduct may be identified. If these criteria are met, the matter may proceed to an inquiry. If not, the AIRIO will document the assessment for possible later review. All information collected through the form will be maintained and protected in accordance with PHS regulations, NIH policy, and confidentiality requirements and applicable federal records standards.

The NIH IRRM Web Form permits anonymous reporting. Complainants are not required to provide personally identifiable information. The form does not require a Complainant's name or other direct identifiers in order for NIH to assess a report. If a Complainant chooses to provide limited contact information, such as a first name or telephone number, that information will be used only for follow-up purposes if NIH needs additional information to assess the allegation. Any voluntarily provided contact information will be protected and maintained confidentially to the extent permitted by law and will be disclosed only as described above.

OMB approval is requested for 3 years. There are no costs to respondents ( printed page 58692) other than their time. The total estimated annualized burden hours are 4.

91 FR 58691