Legislating for security

At least 10 states have passed laws addressing information security, according to a report released last week by the Task Force on Protecting Democracy.

Examples include:

* Florida now allows police to investigate attacks on protected computers owned by financial institutions and government agencies.

* Until Jan. 1, 2006, California's legislature can hold closed sessions on potential threats of terrorist activity against state-owned personnel and property, including electronic data.

* Michigan imposed penalties against people who use the Internet or telecommunications systems or devices to disrupt critical infrastructure or government operations.