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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
HOUSEH.R. 2985· 119th Congress

Federal Government Speeds Up Outdated Tech Fixes

Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act

Sponsor
Nancy Mace (R-SC)
Introduced
Apr 24, 2025
Last Action
Feb 4, 2026
Passage
72%
Introduced
Apr 24, 2025
Committee
Feb 4, 2026
3
Floor Vote
4
Both Chambers
5
Enacted
01 — The Text

What.

  • Extends the Technology Modernization Fund through 2032, giving federal agencies money to replace dangerous old computer systems.
  • Requires the federal chief IT officer to publish yearly lists of the 10 riskiest legacy systems and which agencies own them.
  • Changes how agencies qualify for modernization funds—now based on mission impact and ability to repay, not just technical specs.
  • Tightens reimbursement rules so agencies using TMF money must fully pay back costs for services tied to their projects.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • Affects every federal agency managing outdated systems that create cybersecurity gaps. Public faces risks from breaches of government data.
  • Government employees and IT contractors get clearer priorities; agencies know which legacy systems get targeted for replacement first.
  • Taxpayers benefit from faster modernization timelines, but agencies losing legacy system budgets may face short-term transition costs.
  • Public transparency increases—citizens can track which government IT weaknesses officials consider most dangerous.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Bill passed committee unanimously (42-0) on Feb. 4, 2026. Heads to full House for vote; passage likely given bipartisan support.
  • If House approves, bill moves to Senate. Presidential signature would make modernization push official policy through 2032.
  • Track progress at Congress.gov. Contact your House representative to express support for faster federal tech upgrades.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Feb 4, 2026Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 42 - 0.
  • Feb 4, 2026Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • Apr 24, 2025Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
  • Apr 24, 2025Introduced in House
  • Apr 24, 2025Introduced in House