New legislation expected to be introduced today would give the Homeland Security Department broad new authorities and powers over federal civilian networks.
The bill, however, does not include a “kill switch” for private sector networks, as widely reported previously.
The legislation, Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act of 2010, sponsored by Sens. Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Tom Carper (D-Del.), would move the responsibility of civilian agency cybersecurity to DHS from the Office of Management and Budget, according to a summary of the bill obtained by Federal News Radio.
The responsibility to develop, oversee and enforce IT security throughout the federal government would fall to a new office in DHS, the National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications. A director confirmed by the Senate would lead the NCCC.
via Federal News Radio 1500 AM: Bill would put DHS in charge of all civilian networks.
Sounds like a way to crack down on the internet and the real news that passes so freely on it. Another nail in the coffin of constitutional rights. Dare I say I think someone really needs to look at the legality of making such a move.
DEAR SIRS, GOOD FOR U KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. DAVE