Information and communications technology has changed the face of the criminal justice system, and increased criminal sophistication requires criminal justice system components to implement improved information sharing systems capable of multijurisdictional communication. In response to the needs of law enforcement, courts, prosecution, defense, corrections, probation, and parole, many States and localities are developing information architectures to facilitate accurate and accessible information sharing across the criminal justice enterprise. Recent developments in information sharing technologies provide the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and its bureaus with an unparalleled opportunity to increase the effectiveness of State and local crime fighting efforts through grants for integrated information sharing systems. The OJP's ability to assist State and local governments, however, is impeded by lack of internal coordination and appropriation of integrated information technology training and technical assistance statutes. The opportunity technology has created for the OJP may be a defining opportunity for Congress as well. Through legislation, Congress can systematically link Federal grant making capabilities, create a point of contact to coordinate information technology grant funding, and encourage State and local architectural planning of information sharing systems. By undertaking such legislation, Congress can contribute to the development of a nationwide information architecture that will provide substantial and lasting benefits to the criminal justice enterprise. Examples of statutory authority for funding coordination are provided, and an "information technology map" is appended that identifies Federal grant funding sources. 106 footnotes