Bipartisan House Bill Would Reestablish Independent Congressional Technology Analysis
Five House members introduced legislation to establish an independent congressional office for technology analysis, updating functions once performed by the Office of Technology Assessment. The bill identifies no funding, solicitation, contract value, or acquisition timeline, so it is a policy signal—not an active procurement opportunity.
Key Signals
- Bipartisan House bill proposes independent congressional technology analysis office
- OTA was defunded in 1995 after more than 20 years of service
- Potential expertise areas include AI, cybersecurity, fusion energy, and biotechnology
- No funding, solicitation, contract value, or acquisition schedule is identified
- Monitor enactment and implementation for any future research or advisory requirements
"The Congressional Office of Technology will strengthen Congress’s ability to evaluate emerging technologies by providing independent analysis, timely technical assistance, and long-term assessments of technological developments."
On October 29, 2026, Representatives Sean Casten, Mark Takano, Bill Foster, Don Beyer, and Jay Obernolte introduced the Congressional Office of Technology Improvement and Enhancement Act. The bipartisan proposal would create an independent congressional capability to provide technical analysis and advice as lawmakers consider emerging science and technology issues. The stated purpose is to restore and update a function previously served by the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA), an independent, bipartisan agency that operated for more than twenty years before being defunded in 1995. The bill reflects concern that Congress needs access to impartial expertise as technology develops and affects public policy.
Agencies
- U.S. Congress
- U.S. House of Representatives
- Congressional Office of Technology
- Office of Technology Assessment
Locations
- Washington, D.C.
Sources
- Casten, Takano, Foster, Beyer, and Obernolte Lead Bipartisan Coalition to Create the Congressional Office of Technology | U.S. Congressman Sean CastenCasten · Oct 30
- Reps. Takano, Casten, Foster, Beyer, and Obernolte Lead Bipartisan Coalition to Create the Congressional Office of Technology | U.S. Congressman Mark Takano of California's 39th DistrictTakano · Oct 30