Responsibility and Responsiveness (II) / Elliot L. Richardson.

HEW has become a focus for the aspirations and concerns of our Nation for the income, the education, the physical and mental health, and well being of its citizenry. This report looks to the future and suggests reconception and reform for HEW. Not intended as a progress report, it does review and defend the present structure of the department, with its complexities and divergencies, under the direction of a Cabinet Officer; the interdependency of comprehensive planning is emphasized. The question raised is whether our society can effectively manage our human resource development. Part II examines the department and its operating efficiency, reviewing recent administrative changes and citing the need for evaluation. The crisis developing in this country in the political control of federal programs and funds is discussed in Part III--a crisis of confidence. Recommendations for future reconception and regeneration are made in the following areas: Financial assistance to individuals--ensuring dignity and independence; Financial assistance to states and localities--reforming the intergovernmental delivery system; Capacity building--closing the performance gap. In summary, the former Secretary of HEW urges increased citizen participation in decision making and in realistically facing responsibilities. (JMB)

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