Senate bill seeks to improve cybersecurity in the U.S.

A pair of lawmakers have introduced a measure that seeks to improve the nationʻs cybersecurity.

Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) recently introduced the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Policy and Cybersecurity Coordination Act, which refocuses the NTIA’s Office for Policy Analysis and Development on cybersecurity and policy development.

Per the legislation, the office would be renamed the Office for Policy Development and Cybersecurity — in accordance with the 21st century mission of helping secure the information and communication technology (ICT) sector.

“Cybersecurity is essential to our national security, and so is updating our agencies and departments to reflect our new reality,” Hickenlooper said.

While the NTIA has adapted to meet the challenges of cybersecurity as it relates to critical infrastructure and daily functions in recent years, the proposed legislation would the bolster the agency’s continuous cybersecurity activities.

The new office responsibilities would include, according to the bill, developing cybersecurity policy regarding telecommunications, the internet, consumer software services and public media; establishing guidance and support for execution of cybersecurity and privacy measures for internet and telecommunication companies; developing methods to prevent communication network software vulnerabilities; and eliminating barriers impeding implementation and investing in cybersecurity for communications and software providers.