Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of the US Department of Health, promised "radical transparency" and the restoration of trust in federal health agencies.[1][2] Shortly after his confirmation, however, on Friday, he rescinded a 54-year-old transparency policy known as the "Richardson Waiver" dating back to 1971.[1][2] The policy required the Department of Health to notify the public of proposed rules related to public property, loans, grants, benefits, and contracts and allow them to submit comments.[1][2] Kennedy justified the cancellation of the policy by saying that the policy's "extra-statutory obligations" increased costs and hindered the department's flexibility to make rapid changes.[2] Critics, including the Council on Government Relations, which represents research universities, say the decision runs counter to the Trump administration's proclaimed commitment to greater transparency and that public involvement is essential to democratic principles.[2]