Rep. Jackson Lee proposes cybersecurity bill

A House member introduces a bill that would establish a grant program for higher education in cybersecurity.

A bill that would require the Homeland Security Department and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a grant program to bolster higher education programs in cybersecurity has been referred to several House committees.

The bill, introduced by Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) on Jan. 7, would have DHS and NSF start a grant program to help schools enhance cybersecurity education. The money could be used for professional development programs, associate degree programs and purchasing equipment to be used for training, the bill stated.

When discussing cybersecurity, officials frequently mention the need to improve cybersecurity education and DHS officials have said they are working to expand their cybersecurity workforce.

The bill also would create an E-Security Fellows program that would award fellowships to state, local, tribal and private sector officials so that they can participate in and become more familiar with the work of DHS’ National Cybersecurity Division.

The legislation was referred to the House Science and Technology, Education and Labor, and Ho