Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus effort targets cyberthreat defense

Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus officials said the body has crafted a landmark policy framework designed to enhance the nation’s defenses against cyberthreats while mitigating vulnerabilities.

The Cyberspace Solarium Commission Report outlines recommendations for reforms to organize government, promote international accountability, and strengthen collaboration around cybersecurity.

Rep. Jim Langevin (D-RI) is co-founder of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus and chairs the House Armed Services Committee’s Subcommittee on Intelligence and Emerging Threats and Capabilities.

“I’ve underscored the need for comprehensive cybersecurity policy to protect American citizens and interests for more than a decade,” Langevin said. “I’m honored that Speaker Pelosi appointed me to the Solarium Commission, and I’m proud of the report and recommendations that we put forward after more than a year of hard work.”

Report recommendations include creating a House Permanent Select Committee and a Senate Select Committees on Cybersecurity, establishing a Senate-confirmed National Cyber Director at the White House with policy and budgetary authority, and strengthening the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) — the federal agency charged with protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure against cyber threats.

“From deliberate attempts to undermine our elections to devastating cyber incidents targeting towns and cities, malicious actors have been emboldened by our lack of strong cybersecurity policy,” Langevin said. “It is time for a new strategy that will make our nation more resilient for years to come. The sooner our recommendations are implemented, the better positioned the country will be to prevent and respond to incidents that can disrupt the American way of life.”