Since one of NOAA's main objectives is the protection and preservation of marine resources, the various permit programs were started to collect information about the various entities using these resources. Most of the paper application forms that are used by the various NMFS Regional Offices to collect this information ask applicants for their signature. The signatures on these permit application forms are used not only to confirm the identity of the applicant but also to provide evidence of deliberation and informed consent that the information placed on the application form is true, accurate, and complete in the event a dispute arises and the government needs to protect its interests.
Online forms created in NPS are made to mirror a paper equivalent to ensure that NPS is collecting the same information as the current permitting process. In order for NMFS to be able to protect its interests and switch over to an electronic process for collecting permit information, NPS needs a way to electronically tie an applicant to information that that has been submitted. Also, NPS must be able to prove that the applicant submitted the information willfully and attested that the information submitted was true, accurate, and complete at the time of the signing. The optimal way for NPS to achieve this goal, both for NMFS and its constituents, is for NPS is to collect signatures electronically.
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