Senate bill would create state cybersecurity coordinators

A bill that would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish a Cybersecurity State Coordinator program was introduced in the U.S. Senate last week.

The legislation would ensure that each state has its own Cybersecurity Coordinator, who would be responsible for responding to cybersecurity threats by working with federal, state, and local governments as well as community organizations, like schools, hospitals, utilities, and other entities. Peters was joined in introducing the legislation by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), and John Cornyn (R-TX).

“With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and formidable every day, it’s vital that states have a point person responsible for coordinating cybersecurity efforts with experts in the federal government,” U.S. Sen Gary Peters (D-MI), one of the bill’s sponsors, said. “These coordinators would help states better understand relevant threats, access federal cybersecurity resources, and respond to potential attacks. I’m proud to cosponsor this commonsense, bipartisan legislation, which will help to ensure that all levels of government are prepared to combat cybercriminals and protect their networks.”

Peters is the ranking member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The bill was also sponsored by Sens. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), and John Cornyn (R-TX).

“Michigan is fortunate to be among the few states who already work closely with a dedicated professional from the Department of Homeland Security who coordinates initiatives with the federal government,” Chris DeRusha, chief security officer for the State of Michigan, said. “An on-the-ground cybersecurity coordinator has allowed for improved collaboration between the federal government and state entities, better equipping utilities, schools, and small businesses to prepare for and respond to pervasive cyber threats.”

The Cybersecurity State Coordinator program would be housed in the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

The various state coordinators would be charged with improving coordination between federal, state, and non-federal entities. They would also be responsible for the preparation, response, and remediation efforts relating to cybersecurity risks and incidents. Further, they would facilitate the sharing of cyber threat information and awareness of financial, technical, and operational resources that the federal government has available to help prevent cyber threats.