Bill > HB2197

This bill, titled the "Cost Reduction and Saving Act," aims to streamline state government operations, particularly in information technology (IT) and telecommunications, and to improve purchasing practices. Key provisions include the creation of a Chief Information Officer (CIO) position, appointed by the Governor, who will oversee all state agency IT and telecommunications systems, including developing a shared services model and a plan for modernization and resource reallocation to achieve cost savings. The bill also modifies existing laws to allow the CIO to act as the purchasing director for IT and telecommunications for all state agencies, and to require consideration of open-source software and open standards for cost-effectiveness and interoperability. Additionally, it makes changes to exemptions from the Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act, establishes an advisory committee for entities exempt from central purchasing to collaborate on shared contracts, and revises rules for the State Travel Office to potentially centralize air travel arrangements. The bill also introduces a policy for state agencies to prepay airline fares and lodging using purchase cards when possible.