Protecting Information by Local Leaders for Agency Resilience Act; PILLAR Act
Summary
The PILLAR Act reauthorizes and amends the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) state and local cybersecurity grant program. It focuses on enhancing cybersecurity measures at the state and local levels by incorporating modern technologies like artificial intelligence and multi-factor authentication. The Act extends the grant program through 2033 and modifies funding allocations to incentivize stronger cybersecurity practices.
Expected Effects
The PILLAR Act will likely lead to improved cybersecurity infrastructure and resilience among state and local governments. This includes better protection of information systems and operational technology against cyber threats. The Act also promotes the adoption of advanced security measures and encourages collaboration through information sharing.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced cybersecurity for state and local government systems.
- Increased adoption of multi-factor authentication and AI-driven security measures.
- Improved coordination and information sharing on cyber threats.
- Prioritization of cybersecurity in rural areas and local governments with small populations.
- Modernization of IT and operational technology infrastructure.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs for state and local governments to implement new cybersecurity measures.
- Risk of bureaucratic delays in grant distribution.
- Possible challenges in ensuring equitable access to resources for all local governments.
- Potential for misuse of funds if oversight is inadequate.
- Dependence on the availability of appropriations, which may fluctuate.
Constitutional Alignment
The PILLAR Act aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare. While cybersecurity is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, the Act can be seen as an effort to protect government infrastructure and services from threats, which falls under the implied powers necessary to carry out enumerated responsibilities. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).