California 2017-2018 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB1359

Introduced
2/17/17  
Introduced
2/17/17  
Refer
3/30/17  
Refer
3/30/17  
Report Pass
4/17/17  
Refer
4/18/17  
Refer
4/18/17  
Report Pass
4/26/17  
Report Pass
4/26/17  
Refer
5/1/17  
Refer
5/1/17  
Refer
5/17/17  

Caption

Cybersecurity: critical infrastructure business: breach notification.

Impact

If enacted, AB1359 will significantly alter existing state laws regarding data protection and cybersecurity for businesses classified as handling critical infrastructure. By instituting mandatory breach notification protocols, the bill is poised to foster a more secure operating environment for businesses and help restore consumer confidence in these essential services. The legislation reflects a growing recognition of cybersecurity as a critical component of business operations, especially given the increasing frequency of cyberattacks targeting vital infrastructure.

Summary

AB1359 addresses the critical issue of cybersecurity in relation to businesses dealing with critical infrastructure. The bill proposes a framework for breach notification, mandating that businesses must inform relevant authorities depending on the scale and impact of identified breaches within a specified timeframe. This legislation aims to enhance the overall security posture of vital sectors by establishing clear protocols for incident reporting and management. The intention is to not only protect sensitive data but also to mitigate potential damages arising from cybersecurity incidents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB1359 appears generally supportive, particularly among lawmakers and stakeholders concerned with cybersecurity and data integrity. Proponents argue that establishing clear breach notification guidelines represents a necessary move towards implementing best practices in cybersecurity. However, some reservations were expressed regarding the potential burden on small businesses that may lack the resources to comply with stringent reporting requirements. Overall, the discussion indicates a strong commitment to enhancing cybersecurity frameworks while balancing the needs of businesses.

Contention

Despite the general support, there are notable points of contention concerning the practical implications of the bill. Critics raise concerns about the vagueness of terms such as 'critical infrastructure' and the potential for uneven enforcement across various sectors. Additionally, the bill's requirements could potentially overwhelm smaller businesses, which may not have the necessary systems in place to manage compliance. The debate highlights the need for clear definitions and support mechanisms to ensure that all businesses can adapt to the new requirements without excessive hardship.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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