Cybersecurity Enhancement Act Of 2009

Floor Speech

* Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4061, the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, which addresses the recommendations of the Cyberspace Policy Review to improve cybersecurity in the Federal, private, and public sectors.

* I would like to acknowledge Speaker PELOSI and Chairman GORDON for their leadership in bringing this important resolution to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleague Congressman LIPINSKI, who authored this legislation that will result in the development and implementation of a strategic plan guiding the overall direction of Federal cybersecurity and information assurance research and development.

* As a former member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Threats, Cybersecurity and Science and Technology, I have been concerned about these issues. The rapid development of information technology has led to increased connectivity and productivity that has greatly benefited the U.S. economy. However, with these great advances comes the disadvantage of increased vulnerability of our information technology infrastructure. Reports of cyber crime, hacking, and viruses has steadily risen, heightening concerns over the adequacy of our cybersecurity measures and the need for further research and development.

* My district, the 37th district of California, is heavily dependent on technology and computing networks, so I am pleased that H.R. 4061 is a bill that will improve cybersecurity in the Federal, private, and public sectors. This legislation achieves this goal by developing a skilled cybersecurity workforce, coordinating and prioritizing the Federal R&D portfolio, improving the transfer of cybersecurity technologies to the marketplace, promoting cybersecurity education and awareness for the general public, and coordinating U.S. representation in the development of international cybersecurity technical standards. My district, the 37th district of California, is heavily dependent on technology and computing networks, so I am pleased that .....

* In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I support this legislation because with our increasing reliance on the internet, we need to make sure our cyber systems are secure. I am pleased that Congress is taking action to promote these improvements and adequately fund the areas of government responsible for our cybersecurity.

* Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 4061.

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