52:18A-225 Findings, declarations relative to Office of Information Technology.

7. The Legislature finds and declares:

a. Since its inception, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) has served an integral role in providing essential State services, developing the State's technical infrastructure, and maintaining an efficient and transparent State government;

b. Beyond its core responsibilities of application development and maintenance, data center operations, and telecommunications, OIT provides invaluable data management, Internet development, and geographic information systems to departments and agencies within the Executive Branch of State Government;

c. From developing the Department of Human Services' computer-based disability insurance systems to maintaining criminal databases utilized by the State Police, and from designing the Motor Vehicle Commission's online services to assisting the Division of Taxation in collecting State revenues, OIT provides the critical resources to connect various layers of State Government and deliver services to State residents;

d. Despite its achievements, OIT has been restrained by a lack of accountability, control, and monitoring in planning, developing, and conducting department and agency information technology projects;

e. The lack of oversight has contributed to disorganization and economic inefficiencies, while also restricting growth, limiting innovation, and discouraging creative input within OIT;

f. In order to realize the office's potential, keep pace with technological advancements, and meet the needs of residents and businesses throughout the State, it is necessary to reinforce OIT's role with a new structure, leadership, and mission; and

g. Therefore, the State must take a proactive approach in coordinating and integrating information technology planning, budgeting, and spending throughout the Executive Branch to advance cost savings, improve the quality of services, and retain operating efficiencies.

L.2007,c.56,s.7.