ARTICLE | Editor's Commentary
HHS, DOGE make a mockery of transparency, COI pledges — a Perspective
HHS Secretary Kennedy says he won’t consult public on rules, DOGE staff have obvious financial conflicts
March 1, 2025 1:57 AM UTC
The Trump administration hasn’t paid a price for undermining its promises to enforce strict conflict-of-interest policies. Now, it has decided to make a mockery of transparency vows.
Friday, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the department will no longer solicit public comments on “matters relating to agency management or personnel or to public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts.” This sweeping policy shift, which is certain to face legal challenges, would allow HHS to implement policies affecting Americans and entities operating in the U.S., including life sciences firms, without prior notice or input from those impacted...