Maine Legislature Public API

[saltair3]

Maine Legislature Public API

What problem are you trying to solve?

I'm trying to solve the API data gap between government and software developers within the context of Maine.

In less than 140 characters explain your idea?

The API would provide legislature data for software developers to use for creating software solutions that enhance participatory democracy. APIs provide ease in data delivery and will reduce barriers to entry in civic tech.

Who will benefit from your project? Can you tell their story?

Software developers and ultimately all of society will benefit form this project by facilitating the development of tech solutions to enhance participatory democracy.

What other resources/tools are currently serving the same need?

There are no other resources/tools in the form of an API currently serving the same need in Maine. Developers must go to the Maine gov website to extract the data needed which is a time-consuming and laborious process.

Is there any data, research or code available for your current idea?

Massachusetts has a public API that provide legislature data to software developers so this idea has validation.
Link:

Are there any Drawbacks to choosing this path?

No, only positives. :)

What would success look like?

Success of this project would include both the existence and usage of the API.

Metrics used to measure success include the following quantitative and qualitative metrics:
Quantitive metrics: Number of tech solutions that utilize the data
Qualitative metrics: The existence of the API as a way of inspiring ideal of open gov.

Marketing via current marketing gov channels as well as through marketing targeting software developers can serve as a first go-to-market strategy.

What help do you need now?

A team of software developers and designers to contribute research, design, and code.

What are the next steps (validation, research, coding, design)?

Next steps involve research (investigating existing legislature data and locating relevant data) followed by design and development.

How can we contact you outside of Github (e.g., your email)?

I am a member of the OpenMaine slack channel. From there I can provide an email address to interested parties.

Please remember to find us at openmaine.org and sign up for our Slack, etc. And feel free to email us: hello@openmaine.org