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The Year 2000 Problem is top priority in Oregon these days. The governor's order acknowledges the problem of importing corrupt data from noncompliant computers.
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WHEREAS: The Year 2000 Problem pervades computer systems worldwide. Early computer programs were constrained to using only the last two digits of each year. As a result, two digit year codes are the norm in all kinds of software and equipment. As the Year 2000 neared, two digit year codes were recognized to be a major design flaw, in systems around the world. This flaw is commonly referred to as the Year 2000 Problem.
WHEREAS: If not corrected, the Year 2000 Problem will disrupt public services. The nature of the Year 2000 Problem varies among programs and computer types. Therefore, the damage it causes may take many forms. Flawed programs may mis-calculate dates, days of the week, years of age, or any passages of time. Some programs could cease to function. Others could delete records. Flaws in one program may cascade into other programs that utilize its flawed output. Essential public services could be disrupted.
WHEREAS: The solution is not quick or easy. Every state agency must search out the Year 2000 dating flaws in all its programs and equipment. While finding and fixing these flaws, the agencies must continue normal operations. All systems must be tested before they can be relied upon. In addition, agencies must protect their systems from potentially flawed data from other systems.
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED AND DIRECTED THAT:
1. Each agency of the state shall be responsible to find and fix the Year 2000 Problem in its essential systems. Agencies shall also protect their essential systems from imports of other systems' data which are not Year 2000 compliant. Agencies shall make maximum practical use of existing resources. Each agency must prepare a plan for correction of the Year 2000 problem within its computer programs and equipment and submit that plan to the Department of Administrative Services.
2. Year 2000 solutions shall be a state priority. To the extent it is practical to do so, each agency shall defer commencing new computer projects until acceptance of its Year 2000 plans by the Department of Administrative Services.
3. State agencies shall purchase no new software, system, enhancement, or equipment that fails to meet Year 2000 standards unless its use will end by 2000.
4. The Department of Administrative Services shall continue to coordinate the state's Year 2000 Project. Among other coordination tasks, the department shall:
a) Set year 2000 compliance standards for the state. b) Require progress reports from each state agency that is not Year 2000 compliant. c) Analyze and coordinate any Year 2000 funding requests. d) Make quarterly progress reports to the Governor's Chief of Staff.
5. Agencies shall report to the Department of Administrative Services such information as the department may require.
Done at Salem, Oregon, this 12 day of April, 1997.
(signed) John A. Kitzhaber, M.D. GOVERNOR
(signed) Phil Keisling SECRETARY OF STATE
(seal)
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