The U.S. House of Representatives passed three cybersecurity bills aimed at strengthening the federal government’s ability to prevent and respond to cyberattacks.
The bills were passed by a voice vote, an action reserved for legislation with overwhelming support. They move on to the Senate.
The National Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection Act would codify the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center to enable information on real-time cyber threats to be shared across infrastructures. It also creates a partnership between the Department of Homeland Security and private industry, guaranteeing that DHS recognizes industry organizations to expedite crucial infrastructure protection and incident response.
The House also passed the Critical Infrastructure Research and Development Advancement Act, which strengthens DHS’ research ability and technology procurement, and the Homeland Security Boots-On-The-Ground Act, which requires the DHS secretary to develop a strategy addressing gaps in the cybersecurity workforce.