More On the Subject of Self-Reporting

Another reason simple self-reporting may not always be the answer: sometimes employers lie. Obviously, this is a problem that's more pronounced with issues like occupational health and safety, where employers have an incentive to avoid fines, and in some cases, expensive upgrades to their workplace. Clearly, verification should be a principle for self-reported data. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration should be checking up on employer-provided data in the private sector. And GAO should continue doing its good work auditing agencies on their human capital goals and issues.