Langevin introduces cybersecurity bill

WARWICK – Congressman James R. Langevin, D-R.I., introduced the Executive Cyberspace Coordination Act to “significantly strengthen protections against dangerous cyber threats” on March 16.
The legislation would establish a National Office for Cyberspace to evaluate and enforce requirements for federal agencies. The government would have to buy the most advanced and secure technology, and train a work force that could defend against cyber attacks.
“Our nation sits at a crucial moment, where cyber attacks are common, but have not yet significantly impacted or endangered the American way of life,” said Langevin in a news release. “We have the opportunity to improve prevention and response to cybersecurity threats, but we must take action now.”
The bill has been cosponsored by Rep. Roscoe Bartlett, R-Md., a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee; C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, D-Md., ranking member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; and Loretta Sanchez, D-Calif., ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee Strategic Forces Subcommittee and a senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
The act includes provisions to: establish a National Office for Cyberspace, create secure federal acquisition policies, improve the work force through Cyber Challenge programs, cement FISMA reforms, require annual independent audit of federal agencies.
The legislation calls for the establishment of a federal cybersecurity practice board, establish the office of the Chief Technology Officer within the Executive Office of the President to work in both private and public sectors, grant authority to protect critical infrastructure, develop better cooperation across agencies, identify the sectors most in need of protection, and enhance the public private partnership for critical infrastructure.