This resolution expresses support for designating November 19, 2025, as "National GIS Day" to recognize the importance and broad applications of Geographic Information System technology.
Pete Aguilar
Representative
CA-33
This resolution expresses support for designating November 19, 2025, as "National GIS Day" to recognize the critical role of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. It highlights how GIS data management supports government, private enterprise, and addresses societal challenges through data analysis. The bill encourages the continued use of GIS in education and innovation to drive economic growth.
Congress Backs November 19, 2025, as 'National GIS Day' to Recognize Mapping Tech
This resolution from the House of Representatives is all about giving a shout-out to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology. Essentially, the House is supporting the designation of November 19, 2025, as "National GIS Day." This isn't a new law that changes your taxes or mandates new regulations; it’s a formal recognition of the technology that powers everything from your navigation app to how the government manages resources.
Why Your Phone Map Needs a High Five
What exactly is GIS? Think of it as the engine behind modern digital mapping and location data. The resolution notes that this technology is crucial for government operations and private business alike, allowing for the innovative sharing of geospatial data through online portals and web services. If you’ve ever used a public website to check property lines, track a snowplow, or see where new infrastructure is being built, you’ve used GIS data. This resolution specifically highlights how GIS supports the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI), which is the framework that ensures all these different maps and data sets can talk to each other.
From STEM Class to Supply Chains
The resolution points out that GIS isn't just for city planners; it’s a core component of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. For students, learning GIS means learning how to analyze complex real-world problems—like tracking the spread of a disease or optimizing a logistics route—using data visualization. By recognizing GIS Day, Congress is encouraging educators and innovators to keep using this technology to "analyze and address societal challenges" and "drive economic growth."
The Real-World Impact (or Lack Thereof)
Since this is a resolution, it carries no binding legal weight. It doesn't force anyone to do anything or spend any money. Instead, it’s a high-level endorsement. The practical effect is raising the profile of the entire geospatial industry. For the thousands of professionals, software developers, and analysts who use this technology daily—whether they’re working for a utility company, a delivery service, or a small environmental firm—it’s a nod that their work is officially recognized as vital to the nation's infrastructure and economy. It’s basically Congress saying, “Hey, the people who make those cool maps work hard, and we appreciate it.”