Representative Miceli, House of Representatives, Pass IT Bond Bill

State Representative James Miceli, along with the House of Representatives, voted to pass final legislation authorizing up to $1 Billion dollars in spending to improve information technology equipment and projects across the state. The bill, which now heads to Governor Deval Patrick for approval, not only allocates for expenditures following a bond issuance, but changes a number of requirements on how government websites are run.

“This bill updates several important public information systems, like our State Police communications network,” said Representative Miceli. “In addition, it brings additional transparency to government by requiring information such as state contract awards and reports on the progress of these contracts.”

Aside from $68.2 million dollars allocated for improving the state police communications network, the bill also grants $38 million dollars for a public school district broadband improvement grant which will allow schools to improve their internet access in local communities. $50 million will be set aside for the Broadband Incentive Fund, which aims to lure better quality and faster service to the Commonwealth’s cities and towns.

Portions of the bill also overhauled or created requirements related to state-run websites. The Chief Information Officer is now required to submit reviews of any ongoing IT projects across the state to both the Governor and Legislature for oversight. In addition, the bill also requires the Executive Office of Administration and Finance to issue a report making financial information related to any contracts over $1 million dollars online available to the public, as well as submit biannual reports to the Legislature on such progress.