Workforce Development Legislation Spotlighting Need for Cybersecurity Competency Introduced into Congress

A new bipartisan “Cyber Ready Workforce Act” was recently introduced to the House. The bill would establish a grant program under the Department of Labor to help boost workforce development in cybersecurity by developing and expanding cybersecurity apprenticeship programs through initiatives such as linking local businesses with those interested in pursuing the program. The bill further stipulates that cybersecurity certifications also be offered under the grant program. The bill was introduced by Rep. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and cosponsored by Reps. Seth Moulton (D-MA), Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Dan Donovan (R-NY).

“The demand for talent in cybersecurity is sky-high, and we’re putting ourselves at risk if we don’t address this shortage in our workforce,” Rep Rosen said in a statement. “I’m committed to ensuring that businesses and government have the skilled people and critical tools they need to enhance our nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure, help industry thrive, and strengthen our national security. Everything we do in today’s economy is shaped by technology, and I will continue to work with my House colleagues to ensure our families and communities are better protected against cyber threats.”

To view the text of the bill in full, click here: https://rosen.house.gov/sites/rosen.house.gov/files/documents/ROSENV_096_xml.pdf