Tennessee House Bill HB2265

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Engrossed: 2/27/24
• Enrolled: 3/15/24
• Passed: 3/27/24
• Chaptered: 4/3/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, relative to critical infrastructure.

Impact

The introduction of HB2265 signifies a proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure in Tennessee, particularly in the wake of increasing cyber threats. This legislative change is expected to strengthen state laws concerning cybersecurity, compelling organizations within this sector to adopt stricter security measures and protocols to protect sensitive information. The revisions to the law reflect a growing recognition of the importance of securing electronic networks and data from cyber threats, which is particularly significant for vital services and facilities essential to public welfare.

Summary

House Bill 2265 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically in Title 39, to enhance protections related to critical infrastructure. The bill introduces provisions that criminalize the unauthorized use, alteration, encryption, ransom, destruction, or otherwise rendering unavailable of electronic data, devices, or networks belonging to providers of critical infrastructure and farms. This amendment not only expands the definition of offenses related to data management but reinforces the responsibility of entities in protecting their digital assets against unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

Sentiment

Support for HB2265 largely stems from a collective acknowledgment of the escalating risks associated with cyber warfare and attacks on essential infrastructure. Advocates believe that this legislation is a necessary step to enhance the cybersecurity framework of critical industries. Conversely, some concerns have been raised regarding the bill's potential implications on businesses that rely significantly on digital data management. Critics argue that it may lead to complex compliance requirements that could strain smaller entities lacking resources for adequate cybersecurity measures.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding the bill pertains to the balance between enforcing stringent cybersecurity provisions and ensuring that businesses—particularly smaller enterprises—are not overburdened by compliance costs. While lawmakers acknowledge the necessity of enhancing data security, there are debates about the effectiveness of punitive measures in achieving this goal. Additionally, questions arise regarding the clarity of the definitions used in the bill and how they might be interpreted in real-world scenarios, influencing future enforcement and compliance dynamics.