Legislative Information Technology

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Legislative  information technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated and is providing citizens with enhanced access to the legislative process through the Internet and Web 2.0 tools.  As legislatures become more entrenched in digital media, the preservation of data has also become a higher priority.

Almost all states provide Internet or television broadcasts of legislative proceedings and legislatures are providing wireless access in capitol buildings and tools so that citizens can track bills, legislative actions and other activities. Live webcasts or broadcasts of legislative proceedings are available from at least one chamber in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Many legislatures also offer webcasts of all or selected committee hearings. More than half the states also archive floor proceedings, and about half archive some or all committee proceedings (for varying lengths of time). Many states also broadcast some legislative proceedings on television.

Legislatures and legislators are also utilizing social media services, like Facebook and Twitter, to connect with constituents. Using social media, however, has raised legal and policy concerns.

This website includes information about various issues related to Legislative Information Technology, such as: