Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Department of Health and Human Services for the replacement or purchase of computer hardware and associated software, data lines and software licenses. (BDR S-1181)
Impact
The financial appropriations authorized by SB493 signify a clear intent to enhance the technological infrastructure of health services within the state. By facilitating upgrades to computer hardware and software, the bill aims to improve the operational efficiency of the Department of Health and Human Services. This can potentially enhance service delivery, data management, and overall responsiveness to public health needs, which is particularly relevant in a post-pandemic context where healthcare systems are increasingly reliant on technology.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 493 is an act primarily focused on appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services aimed at updating technological resources. This includes the purchase and replacement of computer hardware, associated software, data lines, and software licenses. The bill outlines specific financial allocations from the State General Fund to various subdivisions within the Department, including the Patient Protection Commission, Health and Human Services Administration, and the State Council on Developmental Disabilities.
Contention
While the bill serves a practical purpose, the allocations specified may encounter scrutiny concerning the efficiency and necessity of the expenditures. Some legislators may raise concerns about the potential for wasteful spending or question whether the funds would be better allocated elsewhere, considering the ongoing financial pressures on state budgets. Furthermore, discussions around such appropriations can lead to debates about prioritizing technology over direct services to vulnerable populations, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are equitably distributed.
Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Aging and Disability Services Division of the Department of Health and Human Services for the replacement or purchase of computer hardware and associated software and door locks. (BDR S-1182)
Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Department of Education for the replacement of computer hardware and associated software and office chairs. (BDR S-1193)
Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Division of Health Care Financing and Policy of the Department of Health and Human Services for the replacement or purchase of computer hardware and software, a certain database and a centralized credentialing process. (BDR S-1183)
Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Division of Child and Family Services of the Department of Health and Human Services for the replacement of computer hardware and associated software, equipment and vehicles and for deferred maintenance projects. (BDR S-1186)
Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation for the replacement of computer hardware and associated software. (BDR S-1175)
Makes an appropriation to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Commission on Ethics for the replacement of computer hardware and associated software. (BDR S-1139)
Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Office of the Military for facilities maintenance projects and the replacement or purchase of certain equipment and computer hardware and associated software. (BDR S-1187)
Makes an appropriation to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Office of State Public Defender within the Department of Indigent Defense Services for the replacement of computer hardware and associated software. (BDR S-1135)
Makes appropriations to the Department of Motor Vehicles for the replacement or purchase of computer hardware and software, office furniture and equipment. (BDR S-1176)
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.