# Plain Language Summary: State and Local Digital Service Act of 2021

This bill is designed to help state and local governments improve how they deliver services to the public online and through digital channels. Right now, many state and local agencies struggle with outdated technology, poorly designed websites, and inefficient digital systems. This bill would create a framework to help these governments modernize and provide better digital experiences—similar to how the federal government has been working to improve its own online services in recent years.

The bill establishes support systems and resources to help state and local governments build better digital services. This includes things like improving government websites so they're easier to navigate, making it simpler for people to apply for permits or licenses online, and helping agencies share technology solutions with each other rather than each building their own systems from scratch. The goal is to make interactions with local and state government less frustrating and more efficient, whether someone is renewing a driver's license, paying property taxes, or applying for a business license.

The practical impact for everyday people would be smoother, faster interactions with government services. Instead of having to visit an office in person or deal with confusing websites, you might be able to complete many tasks online quickly and easily. For state and local governments, this means they can provide better service to residents while potentially reducing costs by using shared technology resources and best practices. The bill essentially recognizes that government services should work as well as the digital tools people use in their daily lives—banking apps, shopping websites, and other services that are intuitive and user-friendly.

State and Local Digital Service Act of 2021

Wyden, Ron

State and Local Digital Service Act of 2021 This bill provides support for the establishment of digital services in state, county, local, and tribal governments. Specifically, the bill directs the General Services Administration (GSA) to establish (1) a Digital Service Grant Program to provide grants to such governments to establish or support a digital service team, and (2) a Digital Service Planning Grant Program to provide grants to create a plan to establish a digital service team. The GSA must (1) report periodically to Congress and make publicly available on its website information regarding the grants, and (2) issue guidance to streamline the procurement of federal services and technology by states, local governments, and Indian tribes.