A website for federal government apps would be developed under legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN) to help American innovators access the tools and resources they need to create applications for web and mobile devices.
The bipartisan Advancing and Promoting Programming (APP) Act, H.R. 5559, which Rep. Emmer introduced on Oct. 12 with lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), would create a centralized website to provide individuals and small businesses with information on sources of federal funding for the creation of apps, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Emmer’s staff.
“Facilitating the development of the technology workforce is essential for a strong post-COVID recovery,” Rep. Emmer said. “The APP Act will help entrepreneurs and encourage innovation at a critical time.”
If enacted, H.R. 5559 also would authorize the creation of a platform to enable Americans to rate and comment on the different federal government apps and retire old or obsolete ones, the summary says. The platform would feature resources to provide computer science education for the next generation of programmers.
The App Association supports the measure, which is being considered by the U.S. House Oversight and Reform Committee.
Rep. Emmer also pointed out that his office also participates in the yearly Congressional App Challenge, “a competition that encourages students to develop their own app,” he said.
Established in 2013 by Congress, the challenge recognizes that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills are becoming increasingly important to the economic success of the United States and invites high school students around the country to compete against their classmates in creating their own software application for mobile devices, according to his office.
“As the digital revolution continues, it’s imperative we keep up with the changing times to improve our future success, and the APP Act will ensure we do just that,” said Rep. Emmer. “In order for the United States to remain competitive, we must encourage innovation and highlight the importance that STEM skills will have on our future.”