Bipartisan Hassan-Gardner Connected Government Act Heading to the President’s Desk

WASHINGTON – Today, the bipartisan Connected Government Act, which was introduced by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Cory Gardner (R-CO), passed the Senate and is heading to President Trump’s desk for signature. The bipartisan measure will expand access to government services and information by requiring all new federal websites to be mobile-friendly. The Connected Government Act will support low-income Americans who rely on mobile broadband at higher rates, as well as the 80 percent of Americans who experience disabilities who use wireless technology every day.

“As mobile devices continue to surpass desktop use for accessing the internet, it is important that the federal government is up to speed with the latest technology that allows our people and economy to thrive,” Senator Hassan said. “I am pleased that the bipartisan Connected Government Act passed the Senate, and I urge President Trump to sign the bill into law as quickly as possible so that Granite Staters and Americans who use mobile technology, including low-income individuals and Americans who experience disabilities, can access government services, resources, and information to help them succeed.”

“I am thrilled that this common-sense piece of bipartisan legislation has passed the Senate and is on its way to the President’s desk,” said Senator Gardner. “As more and more Americans rely on their mobile devices to access information and websites, it’s important the federal government has websites designed for mobile platforms. The Connected Government Act will promote transparency and bring the government into the 21st century.”

The Connected Government Act requires all new government websites intended to be used by the public to be mobile-friendly. The bill also requires the General Services Administration to submit a report to Congress on agency compliance with this law within 18 months of enactment.  Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-IL) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ) introduced the companion to this bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on November 15, 2017.

See bill text here.

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