A more thorough explanation:

The Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) was a government office that existed from 1972 to 1995. It was responsible for studying and analyzing public-policy issues related to science and technology. OTA was part of the legislative branch of the federal government.

For example, if the government was considering a new law related to the internet, OTA would study the issue and provide information to lawmakers about the potential impact of the law on technology and society.

OTA was important because it helped lawmakers make informed decisions about complex issues related to science and technology. Without OTA, lawmakers might not have had access to the same level of expertise and information when making important decisions.