Bill seeks to bolster municipal, school cybersecurity efforts

U.S. Rep. Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY) has joined colleagues in introducing a bill he said seeks to award grants to states, local governments, and educational institutions for cybersecurity curriculum and tools.

Under the Director of the Cybersecurity Grants For Schools Act of 2022 (H.R. 6868), the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) would also extend awards to nonprofit organizations, and other non-federal entities deemed appropriate by the CISA Director.

Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member John Katko (R-NY) and Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) joined Garbarino in co-sponsoring the measure.

“The threat of cyberattacks from Russia and other foreign adversaries is more prevalent than ever,” said Garbarino, ranking member of the Committee on Homeland Security Committee’s Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection & Innovation Subcommittee. “Cybersecurity is essential for our national security and economic security. By incorporating cybersecurity into our school’s curriculum, alongside core subjects like math and science, we will be able to bring up the next generation with a strong foundation to not only protect themselves individually from cybercrimes but also to inspire greater participation in the cybersecurity workforce.”

Garbarino said cyberattacks are the next frontier in the power competition with China and Russia, and action is needed to address the threat and build resilience.

“The Cybersecurity Grants for Schools Act bolsters CISA’s ability to engage with institutions of higher education and make a meaningful impact on the nation’s shortage of cybersecurity professionals by investing in students early in their careers,” Katko said. “Rep. Garbarino is taking an important step forward with this bill, and I applaud his steadfast leadership on this issue.”