HB 1273 (2022)

This bill prohibits some non-compete clauses and non-disclosure agreements regarding free software projects and the sharing of open source software. This bill also prohibits, with limited exception, state agencies from using proprietary software in interactions with the public. This bill then directs the Department of Information Technology to adopt a policy protecting data portability. This bill also prohibits state and local law enforcement from participating in the enforcement of copyright claims against free and open source software projects. This bill establishes a commission to study the use of free software by state agencies. This bill also establishes a software purchasing policy that permits the purchase of proprietary software and hardware only when free software alternatives are not available. Lastly, this bill allows the defendant to examine the source code of proprietary software used to generate evidence against the defendant in a criminal proceeding.