Homeland Security Subcommittee Highlights Cybersecurity Objectives

Washington, DC Cybersecurity for the Homeland, a comprehensive report on the Department of Homeland Security cybersecurity efforts and accomplishments of the Homeland Security Committees Cybersecurity Subcommittee, was released today by Subcommittee Chairman Mac Thornberry (R-TX) and Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA). This extensive report highlights the need for improved cybersecurity for the nation and enhanced partnerships with the private sector while emphasizing strong, continued oversight by Congress. Subcommittee Chairman Thornberry and Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren have been at the forefront of cybersecurity policy in this Congress. Their bipartisan efforts and expertise are reflected in this report, which documents not only their findings but also their carefully considered recommendations for the coming years, said Chairman Cox. Among the Subcommittees recommendations for the 109th Congress: Create, in statute, an Assistant Secretary for Cybersecurity in the Department of Homeland Security; Encourage the Department to develop a coherent program and budget to fully implement the National Strategy to Secure Cyberspace; Assess the Departments plan to improve outreach, coordination, and information sharing across government and with the private sector; Ensure that the Department improves performance on cyber risk assessments and remediation activities; Continue support for research, development, and educational activities to improve cybersecurity products and services.

Ranking Member Jim Turner (D-TX) concluded that, "Many of the threats faced by this country are ones we cannot see, but that are devastating to our society. We must be vigilant in our efforts to ensure the safety of information by promoting cooperation between the private sector and government. Security gaps exist that can be exploited by our terrorist enemies, but closing these gaps provide an opportunity for a safer country."

A copy of the report can be viewed at: http://hsc.house.gov/files/cybersecurityreport12.06.04.pdf