National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act of 2021
May 12, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 1193
Became law: May 12, 2022
May 12, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 1193
Became law: May 12, 2022
Summary
Lets the Department of Homeland Security work with expert groups to train state, local, and tribal officials on how to prepare for and respond to cyberattacks.
What problem does this solve?
State, local, and tribal governments often lack the specialized training needed to handle modern cybersecurity threats. This law allows the Department of Homeland Security to use expert groups to provide this training and support across the country.
What does this law do?
Authorizes partnerships for cyber training
Allows the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with non-profit groups and schools, called consortia, to help address cybersecurity risks and incidents.
Defines training and assistance activities
Outlines specific tasks for consortia, including training first responders, developing curriculum, running exercises, and helping states create cybersecurity plans.
Sets criteria for choosing partners
Requires the Secretary to consider a group's experience, geographic diversity, and inclusion of minority-serving institutions when selecting a consortium to work with.
Requires effectiveness measurement
Mandates that the Secretary of Homeland Security must measure how effective the training and other activities provided by the consortia are.
Who does this affect?
- State, Tribal, and local first responders and officials
- Academic institutions and non-profit organizations
- Critical infrastructure owners and operators
What is the real world impact?
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Strengthens local cyber defenses
Improves the ability of state, local, and tribal governments to prepare for and respond to cybersecurity incidents by providing them with specialized training and technical assistance from expert groups.
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Promotes diverse partnerships in tech
Encourages the inclusion of minority-serving institutions, such as historically Black colleges and universities, in federal cybersecurity efforts. This helps build a more diverse and skilled workforce.
When does this start?
This law takes effect as soon as it is signed and does not list any specific future deadlines.