Rep. Steve Russell is teaming up with Democrats in the House and Senate to force federal agencies to stop wasting money on software licenses — a seemingly minor thing that actually adds up to hundreds of millions of dollars.

Russell, R-Choctaw, said Thursday that problems in purchasing and renewing licenses for commercial software could be reduced by pressuring agencies to incorporate better management techniques and report to Congress on their progress.

A House committee approved legislation co-sponsored by Russell to require the increased focus on the licenses, which are required by many commercial software makers.

A full House vote could come next week.

Russell has been working with Democratic Reps. Matt Cartwright, of Pennsylvania, and Tammy Duckworth, of Illinois. A bipartisan Senate bill also has been introduced.

SOURCE: techwire.net