Requires a study and report on methods to modernize information collection, retention and dissemination in the state

BILL NUMBER:S3616

Title of bill

An act in relation to requiring a study and report on methods to modernize information collection, retention and dissemination practices in the state; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof

Purpose

This legislation provides for a study and report, a first step in enacting plans to reduce the paperwork burden on entities doing business with the State, which would examine the following issues:

a) information resource management policies and guidelines and the possibility of developing uniform policies and guidelines in this area;

b) how information is collected and retained by state agencies and what potential there is to modernize these functions in order to reduce paper waste and cost to the state agencies;

c) how information is made available to the public and whether opportunities to modernize, reduce paper waste, and reduce cost exist;

d) the best ways to modernize the information resource systems to reduce waste and cost while maintaining privacy, confidentiality, an security of information as needed or required and what challenges exist in this area;

e) whether information technology solutions exist to address the needs of the state agencies regarding lowering waste and cost in their information management systems.

Summary of provisions

Section 1. Establishes that he director of the office for technology, in conjunction with the director of budget, the director of state operations, and the secretary of state, and in consultation with the state comptroller, shall study and issue a comprehensive report on methods to modernize the information collection, retention, and dissemination practices of agencies in the state.

In addition this section establishes the contents· of the report as described above, the due date for the report and the report recipients

Section 2. provides for the enacting date and the date that the act is appealed, April 1, 2012.

Justification

This legislation will lead to reduction of costs associated with paperwork both internal to agencies and for those filing forms and reports with agencies. At the federal level, the federal paperwork reduction act resulted in reductions in the burden of paperwork compliance each year since 1995. (see http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg prarep2/.)

Reducing costs is a goal that will save the state and filers money, enable the state to be more transparent, and assist businesses in viewing the State as a partner rather than an obstacle to creating jobs and meeting their compliance obligations.

Legislative history

2009-2010: S.7865A/A.9502A - Veto memo 6829 of2010

Fiscal implications

Within available resources of the agencies resulting in cost savings plans.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately, with provisions.