42 U.S.C. § 1437z–9 — Data exchange standards for improved interoperability

necessary categories of information that State agencies operating related programs are required under applicable law to electronically exchange with another State agency; and

Federal reporting and data exchange required under applicable law.

incorporate a widely accepted, nonproprietary, searchable, computer-readable format, such as the eXtensible Markup Language;

contain interoperable standards developed and maintained by intergovernmental partnerships, such as the National Information Exchange Model;

incorporate interoperable standards developed and maintained by Federal entities with authority over contracting and financial assistance;

be consistent with and implement applicable accounting principles;

be implemented in a manner that is cost-effective and improves program efficiency and effectiveness; and

be capable of being continually upgraded as necessary.