Homeland Security Ranking Democrat Calls For Leadership In Securing Cyberspace
Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security expressed concern over the continued vulnerability threatening our nation’s cybersecurity systems.
“The Department is falling short in fulfilling its basic obligations to state and local governments,” said Thompson. “Despite the many working groups, documented strategies, and reports, there remains a disconnect. I am seriously concerned that the Department’s failure to name an Assistant Secretary of Cybersecurity is hindering our nation’s cybersecurity efforts. It is shameful that the top cyber spot in our nation has remained vacant since October 2004.”
Earlier today the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) and the Metropolitan Information Exchange (MIX) met to discuss the results of a recent survey suggesting weaknesses in the relationship between the Department of Homeland Security and the state and local governments in the field of cybersecurity. One of the main challenges involved in protecting America’s cyberspace is that it requires collaboration between the public and private sector as well as federal, state and local governments. Not only does a secure cyberspace help companies and government protect their information, it also safeguards America’s critical infrastructure.
Rep. Thompson said, “It is unacceptable that in this day and age, the majority of our states are not well equipped to defend themselves from a cyberattack, should one occur.”
The Democratic Staff of the House Homeland Security Committee issued an analysis which outlines several cybersecurity gaps the Department of Homeland Security has failed to address. The analysis highlights recommendations from the NASCO/MIX survey the Department could use to maximize and improve preparedness on all levels, including improving communications with state and local information officers; eliminating redundancies in federal alert systems; offering more high quality training to state and local officials; improving Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) coordination; and seeking more funding for the National Cyber Security Division.
Thompson said, “The NASCIO/MIX survey indicates that much more must be done to improve training, funding, and intercommunication efforts between the federal, state, and local governments in order to secure our national cyberspace.
A copy of the NASCIO/MIX report can be viewed here.
For more information contact:
Dena Graziano or Todd Levett at (202) 226-2616.
