DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training and Employment Apprentice Program Act This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish a DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training and Employment Apprentice Program to identify and train DHS employees for cybersecurity work. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency within DHS must lead the program. Among other things, the agency must (1) track the status of cybersecurity positions at DHS, (2) develop a program curriculum, and (3) recruit DHS employees for the program.
Impact
This legislation is expected to significantly influence the workforce within DHS by specifically targeting cybersecurity positions. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will take the lead in managing the program, which will involve tracking vacancies, developing a curriculum, and recruiting employees to participate. By improving the training and retention of skilled cybersecurity personnel, the bill aims to fortify national security through better-prepared staff who can handle critical cybersecurity issues effectively.
Summary
House Bill 276, known as the DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training and Employment Apprentice Program Act, seeks to establish an apprentice program within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This bill mandates the creation of a training initiative aimed at identifying and preparing DHS employees for roles in cybersecurity. The intention behind this program is to enhance the capabilities of the department in addressing cybersecurity challenges while also creating a structured pathway for employees to develop the necessary skills.
Contention
While there is broad support for enhancing cybersecurity training, some points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of resources and the effectiveness of the training methodologies proposed. Questions may be raised about whether existing employees can readily transition to these roles and if additional funding will be required to support the curriculum development. Furthermore, establishing a robust training framework within a federal agency may face scrutiny concerning its scalability and sustainability in the long term. Ensuring that the program meets the diverse needs of the agency while keeping pace with rapid advancements in cybersecurity will also be crucial.
A bill to direct the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to establish a K-12 Cybersecurity Technology Improvement Program, and for other purposes.
Cybersecurity Vulnerability Remediation Act This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to take certain actions with the goal of countering cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency must report on its activities to coordinate disclosures of cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The report must address, among other topics, relevant policies and procedures; the degree to which disclosed information is acted upon by industry and other stakeholders; and the preservation of privacy and civil liberties when collecting, using, and sharing vulnerability disclosures. The National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center may disseminate protocols to counter cybersecurity vulnerabilities to information systems and industrial control systems, including in circumstances in which such vulnerabilities exist because software or hardware is no longer supported by a vendor. The Science and Technology Directorate may establish a competition to develop remedies for cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2023 This bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish an Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Program. Under the program, DOE must provide financial assistance to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers pursuing a course of study that integrates cybersecurity competencies within disciplines associated with energy infrastructure needs. In addition, DOE must provide the students and researchers supported under the program with research and training experiences at its National Laboratories and utilities.