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HB 1557

CHARITABLE TRUST-GRANT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Charlie Meier

House Bill 1557 enhances IT management in Arkansas, requiring state agencies to follow new standards, improve efficiency, and ensure better cybersecurity practices.

House Floor Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1557

Summary of House Bill 1557 (Act 480)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1557, now known as Act 480, aims to amend the duties and powers of the Division of Information Systems in Arkansas concerning information technology (IT). The bill seeks to enhance the management, governance, and strategic planning of IT resources across state agencies, ensuring more efficient use of technology and compliance with standards.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to the Arkansas Code, particularly in the definitions and responsibilities of the Division of Information Systems:

1. Definition of Information Technology

  • The definition of "information technology" has been expanded to include:
    • Hardware
    • Software
    • Networking and telecommunications
    • Data management
    • Cybersecurity
    • Privacy
    • Third-party hosting
    • Emerging technology

2. State Information Technology Plan

  • The Division is tasked with developing a biennial statewide information technology plan that includes:
    • A statewide disaster recovery plan
    • A detailed inventory of IT assets
    • Budget information for each agency's approved technology plan

3. Duties and Powers of the Division

  • The Division will:
    • Administer statewide IT projects and conduct viability assessments.
    • Establish minimum mandatory standards for IT applicable to all state agencies.
    • Develop performance reporting guidelines and conduct annual reviews of agency plans and budgets.
    • Create a centralized governance model for IT procurement and oversight.

4. Approval for IT Expenditures

  • State agencies must obtain approval from the Division for IT acquisitions or contracts unless:
    • The purchase is $5,000 or less and on an approved list.
    • The purchase is between $5,000 and $20,000, listed on a statewide contract, and on an approved list.

Impact

Who is Affected?

  • State Agencies: All state agencies will be required to comply with the new standards and procedures established by the Division of Information Systems.
  • IT Vendors: Companies providing IT services or products to state agencies will need to navigate the new approval processes.

Benefits

  • Improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness in IT spending.
  • Enhanced cybersecurity and risk management through standardized practices.
  • Better alignment of IT projects with state goals and objectives.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 24, 2025
  • Passed: April 1, 2025
  • Enrolled: April 2, 2025
  • Signed into Law: April 8, 2025

This bill represents a significant step towards modernizing and streamlining the management of information technology within the state of Arkansas, aiming for greater accountability and efficiency in public service delivery.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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