House Bill Seeks Major Overhaul of Federal Geospatial Data Management
A House bill, H.R. 1604, is seeking a major overhaul of federal geospatial data collection and management. Sponsored by Congressman Doug Lamborn (R-CO), the 'Map It Once, Use It Many Times Act' aims to reduce wasteful duplication of mapping efforts across agencies. The bill is currently under review by the House Subcommittee on Environment.
The bill proposes the creation of a National Geospatial Technology Administration (NGTA) within the Interior Department's U.S. Geological Survey. This new body would consolidate mapping activities currently scattered among the Interior Department, Forest Service, and NOAA. The NGTA would maintain a National Geospatial Database, housing various types of data such as transportation network information and underground infrastructure data. This database would be publicly accessible, with exceptions for national security.
To streamline operations, the bill encourages federal use of private geospatial firms to the maximum extent practicable. It also plans to establish a National Geospatial Policy Commission to set goals and priorities for the nation's geospatial activities.
H.R. 1604, if passed, would significantly reshape federal geospatial data management. By consolidating efforts and promoting public access, the bill seeks to improve efficiency and utility of geospatial data. The bill's progress is currently pending in the House Subcommittee on Environment.
Read also:
- Unveiling the Less-Discussed Disadvantages of Buds - Revealing the Silent Story
- Grid Risk Evaluation Strategy By NERC Outlined, Focusing on Potential Threats from Data Centers
- Rapid Expansion in Organic Rice Protein Market Projected at 15.6% Through 2034
- The Virtual Commissioning Market is projected to exceed $4.86 billion by the year 2034.
