Okay here's the thread on why we need better data to address #COVID19 -- just in case it's not obvious to everyone!
When our country makes bold policy investments, there is always vast uncertainty about whether the intended impacts materialize over time. When it comes to economic stimulus, this is also true. /2
Our suggestions incorporate small provisions to ensure we can produce timely, high-quality economic statistics. And this data can also be made #opendata to benefit decision-makers inside and outside government -- including every American household. /3
We will definitely want to know the impacts of cash transfers -- this requires capabilities to use existing income and earnings data. Fortunately, government already collects much of this info! / 4
For the actual appropriated funds, we need systems in place to ensure accountability and transparency for agencies and awardees. $1-2 trillion is a lot of money. Let's make sure it actually goes to the places intended. This tracking is supported by #DATAAct requirements. / 5
But to be meaningful and explicit about the supplemental funding, Congress has to incorporate language in the supp that ensures funding is appropriately tracked. The draft House bill does this, aligning with the @DataCoalition recommendation. / 6
When it comes to public health information -- we currently lack the capability to monitor how widespread #COVID_19 is in the US. We need a household survey -- as suggested by @AbigailWozniak -- to rapidly generate insights on a daily basis. Our ask prioritizes funds for this! /7
Using data must be an important component of how our government responds to the #Covid_19 pandemic. We need to collect the right data, apply strong privacy protocols, and ensure its accessible for useful analytics that benefit our society. /9
If there was ever a time to support #evidencebased policymaking, now is it! Join us in calling on our elected officials to ensure valid, reliable data are available for decision-makers now and in coming months. /END datacoalition.org/an-open-letter…
