Rhode Island House Bill H5746

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23

Caption

State Purchases

Impact

The implementation of H5746 would create a more favorable environment for state agencies to utilize commercial software products without being restricted by contractual limitations. Supporters of this bill argue that such a change will enhance operational efficiency and reduce unnecessary bureaucracy in software management across various state departments. By allowing agencies to select hardware freely, it encourages better resource allocation in a technology-driven landscape.

Summary

House Bill H5746 aims to amend Chapter 37-2 of the General Laws concerning state purchases by adding a new section that protects state agencies' rights regarding software licensing. The bill specifies that when a state agency enters into contracts for software applications, the terms of these contracts cannot impose limitations on the agency's ability to install or run the software on their chosen hardware. This initiative is intended to increase the flexibility of state agencies in managing their software resources effectively.

Contention

Although the bill appears to streamline processes for state agencies, there may be concerns regarding the implications for software vendors and the potential for increased costs in procurement. Vendors may have to consider more flexible contract terms, which could alter traditional pricing structures. Critics might argue that such flexibility could create complications in compliance and accountability and could potentially lead to varied standards in software deployment practices across state agencies.