# What This Bill Actually Does

This is a symbolic resolution that officially recognizes November 15, 2023, as "National GIS Day." GIS stands for Geographic Information System, which is basically technology that creates and analyzes maps using location data. Think of it as the digital mapping tools that help governments, businesses, and researchers understand and solve problems by looking at where things are and how they relate to each other geographically.

The bill doesn't create any new laws or require anyone to do anything. Instead, it's Congress saying "we think GIS technology is important and we want to celebrate it." The resolution highlights how GIS is used across many different fields—from city planning and disaster response to environmental protection and education. It also notes that 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of GPS technology, which powers a lot of modern mapping and location services we use every day.

The practical impact is minimal for most people. It's essentially a day of recognition where government agencies, schools, universities, and companies that work with mapping technology showcase their projects and applications. If you work in fields like urban planning, environmental science, emergency management, or technology, you might see your organization participate in events or presentations. For everyone else, it's mainly a symbolic acknowledgment that this technology matters to our economy and society. The bill encourages students and professionals to keep using these tools to tackle challenges, from local community issues to global problems, and to help grow what the government considers a high-growth industry.

Expressing support for the designation of November 15, 2023, as "National GIS Day".

Curtis, John R.

 <p>This resolution supports the designation of National GIS Day and encourages the continued use of geographic information system (GIS) technology to learn, address societal challenges, and drive economic growth.</p>