Green Bay Reporter

Representatives Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) have introduced the Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill aimed at strengthening the cybersecurity workforce in the United States. The bill proposes the creation of two new training programs within the federal government to address the increasing shortage of cybersecurity workers and enhance the nation's cyber defenses.

One of the training programs would focus on recruiting veterans for these in-demand jobs. Rep. Gallagher emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "By creating programs that provide veterans with the skills they need to help protect this country in the cyber domain, this bill is an innovative way to bolster our nation’s cyber defenses and strengthen the federal cyber workforce while giving veterans an opportunity to continue serving their country."

Similarly, Rep. Houlahan highlighted the urgency to respond to the rising number of cyber attacks and the need to protect businesses, personal data, and national security. She expressed her optimism about the bill, stating, "Our bipartisan, bicameral bill will help train veterans and other Americans to be the next generation of cyber defense professionals."

The importance of developing a 21st-century cybersecurity workforce with the necessary skills and talent was emphasized in the final report of the Future of Defense Task Force. The report emphasized the need to attract and retain a diverse group of technical talent to maintain the country's strategic advantage and competitiveness in evolving defense apparatuses.

The Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act proposes the establishment of two new programs. The first is a cybersecurity registered apprenticeship program within the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The second is a pilot program housed in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that aims to provide cybersecurity training specifically to veterans.

The Senate companion bill was introduced earlier this year by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Cornyn (R-TX). The bipartisan and bicameral nature of the bill demonstrates the widespread recognition of the importance of growing the cybersecurity workforce and enhancing the nation's cyber defenses.

The Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act is a significant step towards addressing the shortage of cybersecurity workers and strengthening the country's cyber defenses. By creating training programs and specifically targeting veterans, this bill not only provides opportunities for individuals to serve their country but also ensures that the United States remains at the forefront of cybersecurity.

To learn more, click on this link: https://gallagher.house.gov/media/press-releases/gallagher-houlahan-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-grow-cybersecurity