H.R.1258 - Improving Contractor Cybersecurity Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1258, the "Improving Contractor Cybersecurity Act," aims to enhance the cybersecurity practices of information technology contractors working with executive agencies. It mandates that these contractors maintain a vulnerability disclosure policy and program. This includes establishing procedures for reporting, assessing, and resolving vulnerabilities, as well as reporting requirements to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to improved detection and remediation of vulnerabilities in government IT systems. It will also increase transparency and accountability among IT contractors. This should result in a more secure digital infrastructure for the government.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced cybersecurity for government IT systems.
- Increased transparency in vulnerability reporting and remediation.
- Improved communication between contractors, researchers, and CISA.
- Reduced risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.
- Encourages proactive security measures by IT contractors.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increased costs for contractors to implement and maintain the required policies and programs.
- Possible delays in project timelines due to vulnerability remediation efforts.
- Risk of overwhelming CISA with vulnerability reports.
- Potential for frivolous or malicious vulnerability reports.
- May disproportionately affect smaller IT contractors with limited resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's implied powers to provide for the common defense and general welfare (Preamble). Congress has the authority to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out these powers (Article I, Section 8). The bill's focus on cybersecurity falls under the umbrella of national security and the protection of government assets.
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).