SHIELD Act of 2024 The Strategic Homeland Information Education and Learning Defense Act of 2024
Impact
The enactment of HB 8746 would support the Department of Defense's ongoing efforts to mitigate threats related to misinformation and disinformation that can affect both individuals and national security. The proposed training program outlines not only the necessity for identifying credible information sources but also the importance of protecting personal data online. Such measures are particularly relevant given the rise of cyber threats and the impact of online actions, which have been emphasized by military leadership as critical areas for personnel development.
Summary
House Bill 8746, also known as the SHIELD Act of 2024, proposes to establish a pilot program aimed at educating members of the Armed Forces on how to interact with digital information responsibly and safely. The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a curriculum that addresses critical topics such as identifying fact-based versus opinion-based journalism, recognizing disinformation, and understanding various online threats. The intent is to enhance the digital literacy of military personnel in a world where information is increasingly available but often misleading or harmful.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits, some concerns might arise around the practicality, effectiveness, and implementation of the pilot program. Issues of engagement and retention of information taught during the training could prove challenging, especially with a diverse participant pool. There may also be debates regarding the methods of delivery explored in the pilot program, such as in-person, virtual, or hybrid approaches. Furthermore, the effectiveness of any required subsequent training for military personnel remains a point of contention, as ongoing updates to the curriculum will be necessary to keep pace with the rapidly changing digital landscape.