HR-5218 : Still Just a Bill

The "Federal Data Center Enhancement Act of 2023" (H.R. 5218) aims to modernize and secure federal data centers. Key provisions include:

• Establishing Minimum Requirements: Directs the Administrator to set standards for new federal data centers, focusing on availability, sustainability, security, and resilience against failures and intrusions.
• Applying Standards to Existing Centers: Requires agencies to incorporate these new standards into existing data center operations.
• Enhanced Oversight: Mandates agency heads to oversee data center portfolios in line with federal cybersecurity guidelines. They must also notify Congress about data center management decisions, detailing how the agency will comply with minimum requirements.
• Technology Prioritization: Encourages agencies to update legacy applications and prioritize commercial cloud environments over custom data center infrastructure.
• Public Transparency: Requires a public website detailing agency compliance with these requirements, updated regularly.
• GAO Review: Orders the Comptroller General to annually audit agency compliance with the new data center requirements.
• Extends Sunset Provision: Extends the authorization for the Federal Data Center Optimization Initiative until 2026.

The bill seeks to ensure federal data centers meet modern security and efficiency standards, promoting reliable access to data and data processing systems for critical government functions.