Relating To Information Technology.
The bill also amends existing legislation to update the responsibilities and expiration date of the Technology Services Consolidation Working Group. This group is tasked with developing a strategic plan for consolidating IT services across state departments, excluding specific entities like the Department of Education and University of Hawaii. This strategic shift aims to centralize and streamline IT operations, thereby enhancing efficiency and fostering collaboration among state agencies. The move toward consolidation is particularly relevant given the increasing reliance on digital services in governance.
SB2613 is a legislative proposal in Hawaii aimed at reinforcing the information technology infrastructure within the state government. The bill emphasizes the critical importance of government data in various operations, from tax systems to emergency responses. It advocates for the increased availability and security of this data, specifically through enhanced redundancy measures in data centers. The Lieutenant Governor believes that without such safeguards, interruptions in government services could have significant adverse effects on residents and businesses. The legislation seeks to prevent data downtime by ensuring that data centers are equipped with multiple power sources and backup systems.
One notable point of discussion surrounding SB2613 is the potential resistance to consolidating IT departments within the state, as each agency may be accustomed to a certain level of control over its technological resources. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding how the consolidation will impact current personnel and the availability of quality IT professionals in Hawaii. The bill proposes to include measures for attracting talent to fill roles in the newly consolidated structure, which may require partnerships with private sectors and educational institutions.