[PLUG-TALK] Old languages never die ... they are sent to govenments

[Rich Shepard]

On Mon, 13 Apr 2020, Rich Shepard wrote:

> "Last week, for example, the governor of New Jersey put out a call for COBOL
> programmers to help fix problems with the software that runs the state's
> unemployment insurance system."

Not to be left out of this problem, Oregon has pre-historic systems that are
failing many who have been pushed out of work
<https://www.oregonlive.com/business/2020/04/oregons-antiquated-computers-could-cost-laid-off-workers-100-million-in-benefits.html>

I wonder what other state components also use outdated hardware and
software.

Taking years to make changes, such as Mike Rogoway's article reports for the
Labor Department, seems to be a characteristic of government technology
programs. I recall the pain reported when Portland tried to upgrade its
water billing system.

This could be an opportunity for the open source community if governments
would accept the help.

Rich