Policy

Lawmakers Call for Free Access to Publicly Funded Scientific Research

Two senators asked the Office of Science and Technology Policy to help make federally-funded research free. 

Policy

House Bill Would Create FTC Bureau to Oversee Online Platforms

The bill takes a different route to big tech oversight than other legislation.

Emerging Tech

DOE Gets Fresh Funding For Clean Energy Research

The Department of Energy could see up to $150 million for further research into clean energy sources. 

Modernization

U.S. Biothreat Monitoring Improved But Needs Technological Upgrades

The improvements hinge on better data and enhanced technology, according to testimony given before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 

Digital Government

Government Has 'Failed to Construct a Coherent Political Vision' for Data Protection, Experts Say

House lawmakers discussed the need for better data privacy laws and procedures during a hearing, emphasizing the Government Publishing Office as an example of progress.

Emerging Tech

Senators Call for Removal of Facial Recognition Tech in Unemployment Services

The lawmakers asked the Department of Labor to help state unemployment agencies remove facial recognition technology from application forms. 

Digital Government

Senate Democrats Introduce Bill To Retain Foreign STEM Talent

A companion bill aims to help immigrant STEM students stay and work in the U.S. to improve the nation’s standing in advanced technological fields.

Digital Government

DOD Needs Streamlined Processes, More Data In Congressional Reports

Congress’ watchdog issued several recommendations for the Department of Defense and its congressional reporting procedures, hinging on internal communications and improved data. 

Policy

Satellite Approvals Could Be Significantly Modernized Under 2 New Bills

The bills targeting satellite licensing at the FCC are being structured in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Cybersecurity

Senators Want More out of SEC Plans to Address Cyberattacks

A rule the commission proposed for investment funds and advisors is not precisely what key cybersecurity leaders had in mind.

Modernization

VA Leadership to Be ‘Very Transparent’ on Healthcare and Other IT Initiatives

Assistant secretary for Information and Technology Kurt DelBene discussed upcoming projections and goals within Veterans’ Affairs. 

Artificial Intelligence

Lawmakers Call for End to Government’s Use of Facial Recognition Tech

The request specifically calls out “dangers” in multiple federal agencies operating Clearview AI’s facial recognition technology.

Emerging Tech

Cryptocurrencies Facilitate an Already Murky Human Trafficking Problem

A House committee hearing spotlit the problematic combination of the usage of virtual currencies and a lack of data surrounding human trafficking in the U.S.

Cybersecurity

Senators Relaunch Cybersecurity Bills Following log4j Concerns

The new package bill was introduced amid calls for increased government support of open-source software development.

Modernization

Legislation to Expand Federal Contracting Opportunities Reaches President’s Desk

The legislation aims to improve government contracting opportunities for small businesses but could have a major impact on governmentwide procurement. 

Emerging Tech

Could Smart Cars Finally be Driving Towards Reality?

Autonomous vehicles offer the potential for making streets safer, but currently face regulatory and safety challenges of their own.

Cybersecurity

IRS Suggests Need to Disclose Crypto Exchange Information to Law Enforcement

A letter the tax bureau sent to a key senator says stronger penalties for failure to report cryptocurrency-based income gains might also help deter cyber criminals.