H.R. 2985: Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act

This bill, titled the Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act, proposes changes to improve how government technology is funded and managed. Its main goals include:

1. Use of the Technology Modernization Fund

The bill aims to better align the use of funds from the Technology Modernization Fund with the original intent of Congress. It allows the Fund to be used for:

• Acquiring, operating, and developing new information technology to:
• Modernize or replace outdated systems.
• Enhance cybersecurity and privacy.
• Improve efficiency and effectiveness in delivering services.
• Providing support for projects that improve technology systems.
• Funding only programs that have not been restricted by Congress.
• Transferring funds only for reimbursable activities to ensure the Fund remains operational.

2. Monitoring and Accountability

The bill establishes strict guidelines for monitoring projects funded by the Technology Modernization Fund. It mandates that:

• Funding can be suspended or ended if misleading information is provided about a project.
• Agency heads must repay any funds that are not used as intended.
• Funding should be incrementally distributed based on measurable developmental progress.

3. Inventory of Legacy Systems

Agencies will be required to identify and report high-risk legacy information technology systems. This involves:

• Providing a list of outdated systems to the Federal Chief Information Officer annually.
• Updating this list each year.

The Federal Chief Information Officer must then compile all agency submissions into a comprehensive inventory for tracking and prioritizing modernization efforts.

4. Reporting and Guidance

The bill emphasizes transparency and accountability by requiring that:

• The Federal Chief Information Officer must report on high-risk systems to Congress.
• Guidance on modernizing technology systems will be issued to ensure proper implementation of the legislation.

5. Definitions and Terms

Terms related to the responsibilities of the Federal Chief Information Officer and agency Chief Information Officers are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity in the roles and responsibilities associated with managing federal information technology.
Overall, this legislation aims to streamline the process of modernizing government IT by ensuring proper use of funds while enhancing oversight to improve overall efficiency and effectiveness.

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