HR 9342: GPO Modernization Act of 2026

HR 9342 in plain English: This bill updates the operations of the Government Publishing Office (GPO) and related programs, shifting several processes from print to digital formats. It modernizes the Federal Depository Library Program to include digital publications, renames the Joint Committee on Printing to the Joint Committee on Publishing, and requires the Library of Congress to publish the Constitution Annotated online instead of in hardbound form.

Stated purpose

The bill aims to modernize the Government Publishing Office by updating its programs and operations to reflect digital formats, and to shift the Library of Congress's publication of the Constitution Annotated from print to online.

Key points

• Updates the Federal Depository Library Program to recognize government information in digital formats, not just print
• Removes the requirement that depository libraries maintain a minimum number of physical books
• Requires the Library of Congress to publish the Constitution Annotated digitally online instead of in hardbound editions
• Raises GPO's simplified acquisition threshold from $100,000 to $350,000
• Allows GPO to accept gifts and expands its authority to provide publishing services

Arguments supporters make

• Updating GPO's rules to cover digital formats reflects how most people actually access government information today, making public records easier to find and use.
• Removing outdated requirements like minimum book counts and mandatory hardbound publications saves taxpayer money by eliminating unnecessary costs.
• Aligning GPO employee pay and leave rules with other legislative branch agencies is a basic fairness fix that helps GPO recruit and keep skilled workers.

Arguments opponents make

• Shifting from physical to digital distribution could leave behind Americans in rural areas or with limited internet access who rely on print materials at local depository libraries.
• Eliminating the hardbound requirement for the Constitution Annotated removes a permanent, durable physical record that libraries and researchers have long depended on.
• Expanding GPO's authority to accept gifts raises questions about whether private donors could gain inappropriate influence over a government publishing and information agency.

Tradeoffs

Moving government publications to digital formats can save money and broaden access for many users, but may reduce access for those without reliable internet or who depend on physical library collections. Replacing print records with digital ones trades long-term physical permanence for convenience and lower production costs.

Current status in Congress: Passed House.

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