MS HB1491

Establishes a Cloud Center of Excellence (CCOE) within the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services to guide cloud adoption across state agencies and governing authorities over a two-year period through July 1, 2027.

CCOE shall develop statewide cloud strategy, provide guidance and best practices, establish standardized migration processes, enhance cybersecurity, monitor cost efficiency, and offer training to agency personnel.

Requires state agencies and governing authorities to consider cloud computing options when making purchases and to ensure new automated information systems are capable of being deployed on cloud services, with exceptions allowed for legacy integration, security, or cost concerns.

Mandates agencies to submit reports to the Department of Information Technology Services at least 14 days before soliciting bids for non-cloud-capable systems, and requires biennial reporting to the Governor and Legislature on cloud adoption progress and cost savings.

Establishes a Technology Innovation Fund administered by the Chief Information Officer to support digital transformation projects through grants, loans, or matching funds, with funding from General Fund appropriations, federal grants, public-private partnerships, and project revenues.