Lawmaker introduces new cybersecurity bill

Rep. Jim Langevin, D-R.I., unveiled a comprehensive cybersecurity bill Wednesday that would establish a national office to coordinate responses to Internet attacks and give the Department of Homeland Security the authority to decide which private networks can be regulated as "critical infrastructure."

The Executive Cyberspace Coordination Act would create a National Office for Cyberspace to oversee efforts by federal agencies to protect against cyber attacks; ensure that the government buys the most advanced technology; and encourage a workforce trained to defend against online threats.

"Our nation sits at a crucial moment, where cyber attacks are common, but have not yet significantly impacted or endangered the American way of life," Langevin, a member of the House Intelligence Committee and co-founder of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus, said in a statement. "In this case, we have the opportunity to improve prevention and response to cybersecurity threats, but we must take action now."

In addition to establishing the cybersecurity office, the bill would also:

• Require annual independent audit of federal agencies

• Establish a Federal Cybersecurity Practice Board

• Establish Office of the Chief Technology Officer

• Grant the Department of Homeland Security the authority to protect critical infrastructure

• Develop better cooperation across agencies

• Define the sectors of our society that most urgently need protection

• Enhance the Public Private Partnership for Critical Infrastructure