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Given recent reports that cyber-spies from China and Russia may have left malicious software programs in the U.S. electric grid, Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), and Chairman Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security, are introducting the "Critical Electric Infrastructure Protection Act".
The legislation intends to:
Provides authority to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue emergency rules or orders if a cyber threat is imminent. These rules or orders may be issued after a finding by the Secretary of Homeland Security (in consultation with other national security agencies) that a national security threat exists.
Requires FERC to assess and establish interim standards deemed necessary to protect against known cyber threats to critical electric infrastructure.
Requires DHS to conduct an investigation to determine if the security of Federally-owned critical electric infrastructure has been compromised by outsiders.
Chairman Thompson stated, "Any failure of our electric grid, whether intentional or unintentional would have a significant and potentially devastating impact on our nation. We must ensure that the proper protections, resources and regulatory authorities are in place to address any threat aimed at our power system. This legislation addresses these critical issues by providing a common sense approach to ensure continued security of the nation's electric infrastructure."
This legislation should place control over cybersecurity measures under the Department of Homeland Security which would put an end to the tussle between DHS and the NSA.
Lastly, the "Comprehensive Cybersecurity" Legislation seeks to to establish the Office of the National Cybersecurity Advisor within the Executive Office of the President. The National Cybersecurity Advisor will lead this office and report directly to the President. The Advisor will serve as the lead official on all cyber matters, coordinating with the intelligence community, as well as the civilian agencies.
What are your thoughts on protecting the Federal Cyber Infrastructure? Are there additional steps required to ensure the safety of the country from new attacks?
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