Bilateral Dialogue Between the Senado Federal of Brazil and the U.S. House of Representatives about the Response to Covid and Remote Deliberations
 

Bússola Tech organised on March 26th, 2021, a high-level panel discussion titled "The Role of Legislative Houses in Leading Digital Transformation in the Public Sector."

This session convened a distinguished group of participants, including the Hon. Antonio Anastasia, Vice-President of the Senado Federal of Brazil, and the Hon. James McGovern, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules on the U.S. House of Representatives. The event was moderated by Mr. Luís Kimaid, the Executive-Director from Bússola Tech with contributions from interviewers Mr. Alison Souza, President of Sindilegis, Mr. Mark Stodder, President of Xcential Legislative Technologies, Mr. Olegário Amorim, President of Visual, Mr. Tim Hwang, President of Fiscal Note, Mrs. Carolina Venuto, President of ABRIG, and special guest the Hon. Brian Baird, former Member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

The discussion opened with an acknowledgment of the leadership role of these parliamentarians during the Covid-19 pandemic and an overview of the legislative response to the crisis worldwide. Congressman Brian Baird was invited to make an opening statement about the continuity of legislative functions.

Throughout the session, various rounds of discussion addressed key topics related to digital transformation in the legislative process. The questions posed by the interviewers focused on the technological response to the pandemic, the role of technical staff in digital transformation, and the future of digital innovations in lawmaking. Additionally, the panel considered the impacts of remote work and digital processes on parliamentarians and staff, as well as strategies for using technology to inform the public about legislative activities and policymaking.

The session concluded with participants emphasising the importance of continued innovation and engagement in digital practices within legislative bodies. The dialogue highlighted the need for collaborative efforts in managing the complexities of integrating modern solutions within traditional legislative frameworks, underscoring the potential of technology to enhance legislative processes while preserving the integrity and heritage of parliamentary operations.