SAA Supports NARA Inquiry into Ross’ Use of Private Email to Conduct Government Business

October 29, 2019—The Society of American Archivists (SAA) supports the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) inquiry into Wilbur Ross' alleged misuse of private email to conduct government business.[1] Title 44, Chapters 21, 29, and 31, of the United States Code identifies NARA as the institution that is officially responsible for federal records management and invests in them the authority to investigate violations of records law and propose remedies when violations are confirmed. As more reports of elected and appointed officials failing to meet their recordkeeping obligations come to light, SAA applauds and encourages NARA's active oversight and investigation.

Misuse of private mail and other communication platforms is an ongoing problem for officials at all levels of government, despite public records laws and regulations that govern the creation and management of official records. SAA once again calls on all elected and appointed government officials to be familiar with—and to comply with—all local, state, and federal recordkeeping laws and requirements. Managing email is just one part of a comprehensive government archives and records program that facilitates efficient conduct of government programs and services, ensures effective management of government information, and provides appropriate documentation of government activities. Use of unofficial, non-government email accounts rather than official government accounts violates the transparency and openness that the public requires from its government, makes it difficult to hold public officials accountable, unnecessarily mixes government and personal records, and ultimately jeopardizes the accessibility of the archival record by the American people.

Read the recently revised Joint Statement on Conducting Public Business in Non-governmental Email Accounts: https://www2.archivists.org/statements/joint-statement-on-conducting-public-business-in-non-government-email-accounts

Read NARA's letter to the Department of Commerce:  https://www.archives.gov/files/records-mgmt/resources/ud-2020-0001-doc-open-letter.pdf



[1] National Archives probes Wilbur Ross' use of private email, https://www.politico.com/news/2019/10/24/wilbur-ross-private-email-national-archives-056287

5 Comment(s) to the "SAA Supports NARA Inquiry into Ross’ Use of Private Email to Conduct Government Business"
107377 says:
The issue of government

The issue of government officials using private email accounts for conducting official business raises significant concerns about transparency, accountability, and compliance with recordkeeping laws. In Canada, similar principles apply under the Access to Information Act and Privacy Act, which mandate proper record management to ensure government transparency and accountability to citizens. This is critical for maintaining public trust and ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks.

From a corporate perspective, organizations in Canada, particularly in cities like Mississauga, must also adhere to strict compliance regulations regarding recordkeeping and financial transparency, especially for tax purposes. A Corporate Tax Accountant in Mississauga can help businesses manage these obligations by ensuring that financial and communication records are well-documented, accurately maintained, and accessible for audits or legal inquiries. Proper compliance not only avoids penalties but also ensures that organizations operate within the bounds of both federal and provincial laws.

Whether in government or private enterprises, recordkeeping is essential for transparency and accountability, and enlisting the expertise of professionals like tax accountants ensures that these requirements are met effectively.

Faheem says:
The misuse of private email

The misuse of private email for government business is a serious issue, and it’s great to see organizations like SAA supporting NARA’s investigation. Transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining public trust. For those interested in related topics, bringermedia.com offers valuable resources on secure communications and data management.

98409 says:
Despite rules and regulations

Despite rules and regulations governing the generation and administration of official documents, misuse of private mail and other communication channels continues to be a concern for officials at all levels of government. 

104186 says:
SAA Supports NARA Inquiry into Ross’ Use of Private Email to Con

At XtraSaaS, we support NARA's investigation into Secretary Ross' use of private email for government business. Transparency and accountability are vital, and we back efforts to ensure official communications are properly handled. We'll keep you updated on any developments.

Faheem says:
At SaaSsources, we fully

At SaaSsources, we fully support NARA’s investigation into Secretary Ross’ use of private email for government affairs. Upholding transparency and accountability is crucial, and we stand behind efforts to ensure that official communications are managed appropriately. We’ll continue to provide updates as new information emerges.