White House cybersecurity legislation proposed

The White House on Thursday sent Congress a proposal for cybersecurity legislation that would, among other things, create a national data breach reporting system that is consistant across all 50 states. Currently 47 states have legislation to require businesses (and in some cases agencies) to disclose to consumers if personal information may be compromised.  The proposed law would also define penalties for “computer criminals” and promote “voluntary Government Assistance to Industry, States, and Local Government” and voluntary information sharing.

It would also “update the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) and formalize DHS’ current role in managing cybersecurity for the Federal Government’s civilian computers and networks.” What the White House means by “civilian computers” isn’t 100% clear but there is some concern that the government could be overstepping  its authority.

CNET: White House proposes cybersecurity legislation

White House Fact Sheet: Cybersecurity Legislative Proposal

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