FEMA Cybersecurity Improvement Act
Summary
The FEMA Cybersecurity Improvement Act aims to enhance the cybersecurity posture of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to include the mitigation of cybersecurity risks as a core function of FEMA. The Act mandates a report from the FEMA Administrator, in consultation with the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), to Congress on the progress of these mitigation efforts.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to improved cybersecurity within FEMA, reducing the risk of disruptions to agency operations. It will also increase collaboration between FEMA and CISA on cybersecurity matters. Ultimately, it should enhance the resilience of FEMA's systems and data against cyber threats.
Potential Benefits
- Improved protection of FEMA's systems and data from cyberattacks.
- Enhanced coordination between FEMA and CISA on cybersecurity.
- Increased resilience of FEMA's operations during emergencies.
- Better protection of sensitive information related to disaster response and recovery.
- Proactive mitigation of cybersecurity risks that could impede agency operations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing new cybersecurity measures.
- Possible delays in FEMA operations during the implementation phase.
- Risk of unintended consequences from new regulations or procedures.
- The act may not address all potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
- Increased reporting requirements for FEMA.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble. Congress's authority to enact this legislation is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to provide for the national defense and general welfare. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).