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Statement of Need: NARA's records management program was developed in the 20th century in a paper environment. This program has not kept up with a Federal Government that creates and uses most of its records electronically. Today's Federal records environment requires different management strategies and techniques. The revision of NARA's records disposition policies, processes, and tools is necessary to meet a strategic goal identified in our Strategic Plan: "As the nation's record keeper, we will ensure the continuity and effective operation of Federal programs by expanding our leadership and services in managing the Government's records." Effective records management ensures: That records are created and managed for agencies' business needs; protection of citizens' rights; accountability; and the ability to preserve and make available records of archival value.

Summary of the Legal Basis: Under the Federal Records Act, the Archivist of the United States is responsible for: 1) Providing guidance and assistance to Federal agencies to ensure adequate and proper documentation of the policies and transactions of the Federal Government and ensuring proper records disposition (44 USC 2904); 2) approving the disposition of Federal records (44 USC 33); and 3) preserving and making available the Federal records of continuing value that have been transferred to the National Archives of the United States (44 USC 21). The Federal Records Act also makes the heads of Federal agencies responsible for making and preserving records containing adequate and proper documentation of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, and essential transactions of the agency and is designed to furnish the information necessary to protect the legal and financial rights of the Government and of persons directly affected by the agency's activities (44 USC 3101). Agency heads must also have an active, continuing records management program (44 USC 3102).

Alternatives: None.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits: The revision of NARA's records disposition policies and processes is intended to reduce the burden on agencies and NARA in the area of records management and disposition activities.

Risks: None.