Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Act signed into law

President Donald Trump on Nov. 16 signed into law a bill that creates the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which establishes a new agency within the Department of Homeland Security to lead the federal government’s civilian response to cyber threats.

The CISA will be a reformed and streamlined version of the National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD). It will seek to bolster cyber defenses and improve the security of the nation’s critical infrastructure.

The president, in remarks made in the Oval Office before signing the bill into law, said, “The men and women of the new Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will be on the front lines of our cyber defense. They will partner with the private sector, and all levels of government, to defend America’s power grids, banks, telecommunications, and other critical parts of our economy.”

U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, introduced the legislation. He noted that enemies of the United States are carrying out major cyberattacks with increased frequency.

“This historic, bipartisan legislation is a significant step forward to safeguard the continued success of DHS’ cyber mission and improve our collective defenses,” McCaul said. “This streamlining and elevation will improve the security of our federal networks and critical infrastructure by bolstering DHS’s capabilities to better match the structure with its current authorities and improve information sharing with the private sector.”

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Act will help the DHS better support critical infrastructure, including election infrastructure, by leveraging the full scope of cybersecurity services. It is also expected to facilitate the recruitment of top cyber talent.