(a)    There is an “eMaryland” ASP Consortium at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus.

(b)    (1)    The general purpose of the Consortium is to promote the deployment of Internet–based technologies in Maryland.

(2)    The Consortium shall develop strategic partnerships with the State, institutions of higher education, federal agencies, and world class technology companies to carry out its mission.

(3)    The Consortium shall:

(i)    develop pilot models for the deployment of Internet–based applications for government and educational institutions, such as procurement, financial, and human resource management applications;

(ii)    participate in collaborations to promote the development and testing of ASP technologies in Maryland;

(iii)    provide advice and assistance to small start–up companies wishing to utilize ASP technologies; and

(iv)    work with industry and public agencies to research and develop emerging e–commerce technologies.

(c)    (1)    There is a management committee for the Consortium.

(2)    The management committee is responsible for approving the activities of the Consortium and providing direction and oversight.

(3)    The management committee shall be composed of:

(i)    the Secretary of Information Technology;

(ii)    the Chief Information Officer at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus;

(iii)    the Director of the Supply Chain Management Center at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus;

(iv)    the Executive Director of the Maryland Technology Development Corporation; and

(v)    a member appointed by the Governor.