Obama signs bill that will ease presidential transitions

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has signed into law legislation intended to improve the changeover from one president to another.

The White House is now required — at least six months before Election Day — to create a team of officials from different agencies to help smooth the transition between administrations.

The bill’s sponsor, Wisconsin Republican Sen. Ron Johnson, describes handing over control of the federal government as “a colossal undertaking.”

Johnson heads the Senate’s Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee. He says setting the stage for the handoff coming in January requires the proper resources and attention.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest says Obama is committed to ensuring a smooth transition.