Beach Bill to Study the Feasibility of Paperless Government Clears Committee

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee Chair James Beach, which would create a task force to study the feasibility of the state government going paperless, cleared the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee today.

“Studying the feasibility is the first step in moving our state government towards a more efficient and environmentally sustainable future,” said Senator Beach (D-Burlington/Camden).  “While going paperless is a large feat, it has the potential to save time and money, as well as save the environment.”

The bill, S-3222, would create a task force to study the feasibility of the government’s executive branch going paperless. The fifteen member committee would include experts in cyber security, technology, taxation and voting from the public and executive offices.

The task force would study several factors of feasibility including the technology necessary and the risks associated. It would also perform a cost-benefit analysis and provide recommendations for implementation.

The task force would issue a final report one year after their first meeting. It would dissolve six months later to allow time for legislators and the governor to ask questions or request further research based on the report’s findings.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 5-0.