H.R.2985 - Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2985, the Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act, aims to improve the effectiveness of the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF). It amends Section 1078 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. The bill focuses on realigning the use of funds with original congressional intent, emphasizing modernization, cybersecurity, and efficiency in government IT systems.
Key provisions include stricter oversight of fund allocation, requirements for agencies to reimburse the fund, and the establishment of a legacy IT inventory. The bill also extends the fund's operational lifespan until after December 31, 2032.
Overall, the bill seeks to ensure the TMF is used effectively to modernize government technology, enhance cybersecurity, and improve service delivery while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to more stringent management and oversight of the Technology Modernization Fund. Agencies will face increased accountability for how they use TMF funds.
It will also result in a clearer understanding of the government's legacy IT systems and the risks they pose. This understanding should drive more targeted modernization efforts.
Ultimately, the bill aims to improve the efficiency and security of government IT infrastructure, leading to better services for citizens.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced cybersecurity across government agencies.
- Improved efficiency and effectiveness of government IT systems.
- Modernization of outdated legacy IT systems.
- Better service delivery to the public through improved technology.
- Increased accountability and oversight of government spending on IT projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden on agencies due to stricter reporting and repayment requirements.
- Potential delays in project implementation due to increased oversight.
- Risk of funds being suspended or terminated for projects with misleading statements, potentially disrupting ongoing initiatives.
- Possible limitations on project scope due to the focus on reimbursement and fund solvency.
- The need for agencies to prioritize projects based on their ability to repay the fund, potentially overlooking other critical modernization needs.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by improving government efficiency and service delivery through technological modernization. Congress's power to legislate in this area is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including managing government operations. The emphasis on cybersecurity also indirectly supports the "common defence" by protecting government systems from external threats.
However, the bill does not directly implicate specific constitutional rights or limitations. It primarily concerns the internal management and operation of government agencies.
Therefore, the bill appears to be within the constitutional authority of Congress.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).