Bicameral Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act seeks to strengthen U.S. cyber system through training programs

Last week, a new bill introduced in both chambers of Congress – the Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act – proposed improving U.S. cyber defenses and its cybersecurity workforce through two new federal training programs.

“There is a crippling shortage of cybersecurity workers that is leaving private companies and the federal government increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats,” U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), one of the bill’s authors, said. “By creating programs that provide veterans with the skills they need to help protect this country in the cyber domain, this bill is an innovative way to bolster our nation’s cyber defenses and strengthen the federal cyber workforce while giving veterans an opportunity to continue serving their country.”

Specifically, the bill would launch two new programs:

• A cybersecurity registered apprenticeship program run by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
• A Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pilot program to give cybersecurity training to veterans

In the House, Gallagher introduced the bill alongside U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA). Houlahan also served on the Future of Defense Task Force – a House task force that, in 2020, reported that the U.S. must create a 21st-century workforce with the skills and talent needed to maintain its strategic advantage. Its report called for attracting and retaining a diverse group of technical talent. 

“Reports of cyber attacks continue to rise, and we must respond accordingly to protect businesses, sensitive personal data, and ultimately our national security,” Houlahan said. “Security breaches have far-reaching implications – small businesses may have to halt operations, Pennsylvanians could have their identity stolen, or worse. Thankfully, our bipartisan, bicameral bill will help train veterans and other Americans to be the next generation of cyber defense professionals.”

This bill was tried by Houlahan during the last Congress as well, but it failed to gain traction. Earlier this year, alongside the House bill, it was also introduced into the Senate by U.S. Sens. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Cornyn (R-TX) as S.2256.