Responding to criticism that citizens were deprived of access to the results of federally-financed research, the federal government revealed a new policy that makes the research available online. The policy gives federal agencies six months to develop plans to post the data online. (The Chronicle of Higher Education, February 22, 2013, by Jennifer Howard)
In the meantime, Congress has introduced a bill to make the access federal law, a law that the Electronic Freedom Foundation said is necessary to make sure future administrations didn’t change the open access policy. (EFF, February 22, 2013, by Adi Kamdar)
“This is a watershed moment.” said Heather Joseph, Executive Director of SPARC. “The Administration’s action marks a major step forward towards open access to scientific research. The Directive will accelerate scientific discovery, improve education, and empower entrepreneurs to translate research into commercial ventures and jobs. It’s good for our nation, our economy, and our future.” (Publishers Weekly, February 22, 2013) -db