Learn Public Code
Understand why public money should fund public code, how it benefits everyone, and what you can do about it.
What is Public Code?
Public Code is software developed with public money that is made openly available as Free and Open Source Software. It means:
- → Transparency: The code is public. Anyone can inspect it.
- → Security: Thousands of eyes find and fix bugs faster.
- → Reusability: Other governments can use and improve the code.
- → Efficiency: Stops reinventing the wheel in every city and state.
How Ballot Initiatives Work in the USA
Signature Gathering
Collect signatures from voters. Each state requires a percentage of registered voters to sign (usually 5-10%).
Ballot Qualification
Once enough signatures are verified, the initiative is placed on the ballot. Usually happens in November general elections.
Public Campaign
Public awareness campaign. Supporters and opponents both make their case. Voters learn about the issue.
Vote & Enactment
Voters vote yes or no. If approved, the measure becomes law. No need for legislature approval.
Success Stories
Italy's Public Code Mandate
Italy made it law: all software developed by public administration must be open source. Result: massive cost savings and improved security across government agencies.
📍 Italy • 2016-Present
France's Digital Republic Law
France passed a law requiring all government software to be open source and publicly reusable. Agencies now collaborate instead of duplicating work.
📍 France • 2016-Present
EU Open Digital Ecosystem Strategy
The European Union committed to open-source software as critical infrastructure. Billions in funding for FOSS development and security.
📍 European Union • 2026-Present
Frequently Asked Questions
Won't open source make government software insecure?
No. Actually the opposite. Open-source code gets reviewed by thousands of independent security experts. Closed proprietary code only gets reviewed by the vendor's small team. Open is more secure.
What about intellectual property and patents?
Open-source licenses protect IP while allowing free use. Developers retain credit and attribution. Companies can still contribute and profit by offering services and support around the code.
Which states can have ballot initiatives?
24 U.S. states allow ballot initiatives. We're targeting states where there's strong public support and lower signature thresholds. Check your state's requirements—they vary significantly.
How much does government software cost taxpayers?
Billions annually. The U.S. government spends $60+ billion/year on IT services, much on duplicated proprietary software. Studies show public code could save 20-40% through reuse and competition.
How do I get involved?
Sign the petition. Share with friends. Reach out to your state representatives. Volunteer for the campaign. Donate to support ballot initiatives in your state.