Washington, D.C. — Today, as Geographic Information System (GIS) users around the world showcase their work, Congressmen John Curtis (R-UT) and Pete Aguilar (D-CA) introduced a resolution officially designating November 15, 2023, as National GIS Day. The resolution encourages GIS users to continue to innovate and use GIS as a tool to analyze and address today’s societal challenges and drive economic growth.

“We take for granted the ability of our mobile devices to help us navigate from point to point,” said Rep. John Curtis. “Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are central to how we move ourselves and our goods around the world. We should all applaud the advancements and work of the GIS community for making everyday activities possible. I am proud to once again introduce this resolution with Representative Aguilar and recognize today as National GIS Day.” 

“The Geographic Information System (GIS) is a critical navigational tool that Americans rely on every day. It is so exciting to witness the innovations and advancements we have made in this field,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I am proud that the Inland Empire is home to Esri, one of the world’s leading GIS companies, and on National GIS Day, I applaud the hardworking men and women whose efforts are helping up map our way to a smarter, more connected future.”

“The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) commends Representatives Curtis and Aguilar for their leadership and initiative introducing the GIS Day resolution. The land surveying profession and GIS community are working hand in hand in mapping and cataloging the Nations vast infrastructure, disaster planning and recovery efforts, floodplain management, natural resources, and other important public policies for the protection and safety of the public.” — Bob Akins, PLS, NSPS President

“Thank you Congressmen Aguilar and Curtis for introducing the GIS Day resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives. Geospatial data, services, technology, and applications, many of which are portrayed and visualized in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), are used by individual citizens every day on our mobile devices and in important business, government, educational institutions, and organizations and make a significant contribution to our economy and quality of life. This resolution helps bring attention to GIS and its role in infrastructure, climate and the environment, economic growth and development, and other important work performed by this community.” — John Palatiello, President and Founder, U.S. Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO)

"I want to thank Congressmen Curtis and Aguilar for their leadership in sponsoring the House’s 2023 GIS Day resolution. Each year, GIS Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the crucial impact these technologies are having in every industry. Federal agencies, state and local governments, the private sector, and nonprofits are dependent on geospatial systems to keep Americans safe, plan our communities, protect the environment, and help run organizations of all sizes. GIS tools touch our lives for the better every single day and I appreciate the House’s support of this important resolution." — Jack Dangermond, Founder and President of Esri

"On behalf of MAPPS, the largest national association representing firms in the geospatial data and geographic information systems (GIS) industry, I extend my gratitude to Representatives Curtis and Aguilar for the introduction of this important resolution. GIS technologies and its associated economic footprint has experienced incredible growth over the years - providing critical datasets and tools to help bolster our nation's infrastructure development, advance climate science, promote disaster preparedness and so much more. National GIS Day is a great way to promote the important contributions of those that work in the GIS industry." — Kelly Francis, President, MAPPS

For bill text, click HERE.

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