House panel approves electronic government bill

The House Small Business Committee approved legislation Wednesday to require federal agencies to allow businesses, individuals or others to file information requested by the U.S. government electronically instead of using paper when possible.

H.R. 439, which the panel approved unanimously by voice vote, builds on legislation included in the massive omnibus spending bill enacted in 1998. That measure required the Office of Management and Budget to take steps to allow for the use of electronic forms and digital signatures when dealing with the federal government.

The bill, sponsored by Small Business Committee Chairman James Talent, R-Mo., would amend the Paperwork Reduction Act to require the Office of Management and Budget to promote the use of electronic submission of information as a substitute for paper. When possible, federal agencies also would be required to provide businesses or others with the option of filing forms or other information submitted to the federal government electronically.

Supporters say the legislation will help reduce costs and regulatory burdens on businesses by making it easier to provide information to the federal government. "With this small step, not only can we reduce paperwork storage costs and compliance time, but we will provide our nation's entrepreneurs with more time for what is important-running and expanding their businesses," said Rep. Nydia Velazquez D-N.Y., the panel's top Democrat and H.R. 439's chief co-sponsor.

A committee aide said that the House Government Reform and Oversight Committee had waived jurisdiction over the bill, which means it can next be considered by the full House. The House passed similar legislation in the 105th Congress but the Senate failed to act on it.