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Cyber Preparedness Act of 2016

Floor Speech

Date: Sept. 26, 2016
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: National Security Technology and Communication

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Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I rise in support of H.R. 5459, the Cyber Preparedness Act of 2016.

Mr. Speaker, in May the Committee on Homeland Security held a hearing to examine how the Department of Homeland Security assists States in preparing and responding to cyber attacks. Historically, States have rated cybersecurity among the core capabilities in which they have the least confidence.

At the hearing, we heard compelling testimony from State emergency managers and chief information officers about the initiatives States are undertaking to reverse that trend and prevent cyber attacks within their State. For instance, some States like New Jersey and California have begun developing their own cyber information-sharing capabilities akin to DHS' National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center.

One of the consistent challenges witnesses identified, however, was the lack of robust cyber information sharing. H.R. 5459 addresses this challenge by promoting the sharing of cyber threat indicators and information, as well as cybersecurity best practices, with State and major urban area fusion centers.

The bill also designates cybersecurity as an allowable use of State Homeland Security Grants and Urban Areas Security Initiative funds.

Mr. Speaker, cyber attacks on systems that underpin the operation of critical infrastructure have the potential to wreak havoc on our communities. State emergency managers and chief information officers have made clear that the better sharing of cyber information is essential to preventing cyber attacks. H.R. 5459 seeks to improve cyber information sharing with fusion centers.

Moreover, I would note that, with respect to cyber threats to election equipment, the committee adopted an amendment to specifically direct DHS to share cyber threat information regarding election equipment and technology with fusion centers. The right to vote is among the most cherished, and the integrity of our election process is fundamental to our democracy. We must protect it.

I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5459.

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