Morris Passes Measure to Streamline State Department Technology Acquisition and Standards

SPRINGFIELD, ILL –State Rep. Yolonda Morris, D-Chicago, recently passed legislation that will modernize technology procurement and accessibility matters by shifting their oversight from individual agencies to the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT).

“During the pandemic, we saw just how important technology is for our lives, communities, businesses and government. Communication, services and information shifted to digital spaces,” said Morris. “In recognition of the critical role technology plays in every part of state government, we must take a more uniform approach to the purchase, development and implementation of the tools it uses every day.”

Morris’ House Bill 4813 shifts oversight of state department and agency technology from individual units to DoIT. The purchase of new tools and equipment, development of new technology and adherence to accessibility standards will shift entirely to DoIT. Cybersecurity experts agree that uniformity of technology oversight within large entities can increase help to lessen risk.

“For years, there has been little consistency with our state agencies’ websites. Some are stuck in the 90s and others are firmly in the 21^st Century,” said Morris. “This measure will make our departments work more efficiently and save money by centralizing duties currently spread across multiple state entitites.”