How Governments Are Using GovRAMP Core to Modernize Cloud Security

A Smarter Starting Point for Cloud Security

As public agencies accelerate digital transformation, the need for scalable, validated security checkpoints is more pressing than ever. Full authorization remains critical in many cases—but requiring it too early, or in lower-risk scenarios, can delay procurements and restrict innovation. 

That’s why GovRAMP Core was developed: to provide a validated, cost-effective milestone that helps governments make risk-based, right-sized decisions—faster. 

Why Governments Are Embracing Core 

Let’s face it: procurement timelines are tight, security threats are real, and IT budgets aren’t getting any bigger. Governments need a practical, scalable way to validate a cloud vendor’s security posture earlier in the process—without overcommitting resources or accepting unnecessary risk. For many governments, it’s not a compromise—it’s a smarter strategy. 

GovRAMP Core was built for that balance. It offers a verified, evidence-based checkpoint that helps: 

• Validate cloud vendor security posture earlier in the procurement cycle 
• Reduce assessment costs and administrative burden 
• Enable broader vendor participation in solicitations 
• Increase buyer confidence before full authorization is achieved 
• Free up internal teams to focus on strategic security oversight

Real-World Examples: How Arizona, Texas, and Utah Are Implementing Core 

Three states are leading the way, each incorporating GovRAMP Core into procurement strategies in a way that aligns with their unique risk environments, policies, and timelines: 

The State of Arizona integrates Core into select solicitations as part of a broader risk-based procurement model. Core serves as an intermediate layer of assurance—a practical step between “trust me” and full authorization. Visit Arizona's program page. 

The State of Texas has formally adopted GovRAMP Core into its statewide procurement manual, offering clear directions for agencies and providers alike. By incorporating Core into the standard operating framework, Texas is streamlining security validation while improving procurement agility. View Texas’ program page. 

The State of Utah's phased procurement model uses Core to align cloud providers with baseline security expectations early in the process. This approach supports incremental progress without delaying innovation or disrupting service delivery. Explore Utah's program page. 

The State of Indiana is also preparing to adopt Core requirements as part of its updated cybersecurity policy. While full implementation details are still forthcoming, Indiana has made clear its intent to leverage Core as a foundational security milestone for cloud vendors. 

More information will be shared as Indiana's RAMP policy is finalized. 

• Visit Indiana’s Program Page 
• View Indiana’s RAMP Cybersecurity FAQ 

What This Means for Other Governments 

Core is available to any state, local, tribal, territorial, or federal government. Whether you’re supporting small-scale SaaS rollouts or complex multi-agency transformations, Core offers a right-sized entry point into the GovRAMP ecosystem. If you’ve ever asked, “How can we validate vendors earlier?”—this is your answer. 

Agencies can incorporate Core into: 

• Pre-solicitation planning and market research 
• Minimum security requirements in RFPs 
• Evaluation scoring criteria 
• Risk-adjusted contract language

Resources to Support Your Adoption 

GovRAMP offers tailored tools and guidance to help governments adopt Core with clarity and confidence: 

• GovRAMP Core Overview & Requirements – Understand how Core fits within the broader security lifecycle 

• Participating Governments – Explore how peer states are integrating Core 

• GovRAMP Core FAQ – Get answers to top questions on timelines and requirements 

• GovRAMP Engagement Team (GET) – Email get@govramp.org for onboarding guidance. 

Closing: Adopt Core. Accelerate Confidence. 

Arizona, Utah, and Indiana are showing that adoption isn’t just possible—it’s practical. By introducing Core, they’re giving providers a meaningful checkpoint—and giving agencies a scalable, verified way to assess risk earlier in the process. 

For some governments, Core is a launchpad to full authorization. For others, it’s the right-sized destination. Wherever you start, GovRAMP Core is designed to help you move forward—with speed, clarity, and confidence.