The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1319, aims to establish a Cybersecurity Task Force to enhance the state's cybersecurity framework. The task force will be responsible for developing a strategic plan that includes recommendations for oversight and coordination of cybersecurity efforts among state agencies, municipalities, and federal entities. Key areas of focus will include critical information technology infrastructure needs, collaboration with the private sector, and promoting public awareness of cybersecurity issues. The task force will consist of various appointed members, including representatives from the General Assembly, state agencies, and the Governor's office.
Significant changes in the bill include the extension of the task force's reporting deadline from January 1, 2024, to January 1, 2026, allowing more time for comprehensive findings and recommendations. The task force will be required to submit its report to the relevant joint standing committee of the General Assembly, and it will terminate upon submission of the report or on January 1, 2026, whichever is later. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration across different levels of government and the private sector to address cybersecurity challenges effectively.