Legislation To Enhance Cybersecurity Clears House

Press Release

This week, the House of Representatives passed the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act to reauthorize several National Science Foundation (NSF) programs that are aimed to improve cybersecurity. Over the past decade, the interconnectivity and interdependence of information technology has dramatically increased the vulnerability of many different networks, thereby making them susceptible to a cyber attack. In fact, the Government Accountability Office has stated that cyber-based threats to federal systems and critical infrastructure are ever evolving and growing. To respond to these vulnerabilities, the legislation passed this week seeks to improve cybersecurity in the federal, private, and public sectors through coordination of federal cybersecurity research and development activities. In addition, the bill addresses the current shortage of cybersecurity professionals by reauthorizing cybersecurity workforce and traineeship programs at NSF and also by codifying the NSF Scholarship for Service program. As recent events have exposed cybersecurity vulnerabilities, Congressman Miller supported this bill and will continue working in Congress to ensure a long-term cybersecurity strategy.

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