To secure Federal access to scientific literature and other subscription services by requiring Federal agencies and legislative branch research arms to make recommendations on increasing agency library access to serials, and for other purposes.

2/13/2025, 3:18 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1247

Bill 119 hr 1247, also known as the "Federal Research Public Access Act," aims to ensure that federal agencies and research arms within the legislative branch have access to scientific literature and subscription services. The bill requires these agencies to make recommendations on how to increase access to serials, such as academic journals and research publications.

The main goal of the bill is to promote transparency and accessibility in federal research by making it easier for government agencies to access the latest scientific findings and research. By requiring agencies to provide recommendations on improving library access to serials, the bill seeks to ensure that federal researchers have the resources they need to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in their fields.

Overall, the Federal Research Public Access Act is designed to enhance the quality and effectiveness of federal research by ensuring that researchers have access to the information they need to make informed decisions and advance scientific knowledge.

Congressional Summary of HR 1247

Well-Informed, Scientific, & Efficient Government Act of 2025 or the WISE Government Act

This bill prohibits an agency from entering into a contract for a journal subscription that prohibits disclosure of the cost of the subscription to another agency or the Library of Congress.

Each agency library must make policies and procedures for employee access to library subscriptions easily and clearly available to the agency's employees, including regional employees, through the intranet.

The General Services Administration must submit to Congress and each agency library a report on increasing agency library access to serials.

Current Status of Bill HR 1247

Bill HR 1247 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 12, 2025. Bill HR 1247 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 12, 2025. Bill HR 1247's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. as of February 12, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1247

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

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Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1247

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1247

To secure Federal access to scientific literature and other subscription services by requiring Federal agencies and legislative branch research arms to make recommendations on increasing agency library access to serials, and for other purposes.

Comments

Luka Tan

610

1 year ago

I think this bill is a good idea. It will help make sure that everyone has access to important information. But how will it affect smaller libraries in rural areas?