Concerned about the performance and cost overruns of several public works projects involving computers, Sen. James A. Seveney (D-Dist. 11, Portsmouth, Bristol, Tiverton) plans to introduce legislation that would require certification of software engineers.
The legislation would create a professional designation and registration criteria for professional software engineers with the subsequent purpose of requiring professional certification as a condition of participating in software development-related public works projects.
“It is necessary for this state to invest in expensive projects that involve complex software system development,” said Senator Seveney. “We require the certification of other types of engineers, but we require nothing of software engineers, despite the fact that this is a complex, rapidly-expanding field. We have had catastrophic problems with the rollout of new computer systems in the Department of Human Services, the Division of Taxation and the Department of Motor Vehicles. It’s time to provide a layer of protection when it comes to our massive computer-related public works projects.”
The bill would amend the current law on the certification of engineers by adding language relating to computers.
