To amend title 10, United States Code, to improve recruitment and retention of the cyber workforce of the Department of Defense, and for other purposes.
Summary
S. 2605 aims to improve the recruitment and retention of the Department of Defense's (DoD) cyber workforce. It amends Title 10, United States Code, to grant the Secretary of Defense greater authority in managing cyber personnel. This includes establishing excepted service positions, offering competitive compensation, and creating a Defense Digital Executive Service.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to lead to a more skilled and stable cyber workforce within the DoD. It could also streamline hiring processes and allow for more competitive compensation packages. This may improve the nation's cybersecurity posture.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security through a more capable cyber workforce.
- Streamlined hiring processes for critical cyber positions.
- Increased competitiveness in attracting and retaining top cyber talent.
- Improved interagency transfer agreements for cyber personnel.
- Potential for innovation in cyber defense strategies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for circumvention of standard civil service protections.
- Risk of creating a separate, unequal pay scale within the DoD.
- Possible challenges in oversight and accountability due to excepted service positions.
- Could lead to a brain drain from other government agencies if DoD compensation is significantly higher.
- May face resistance from unions or existing DoD employees.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional power granted to Congress to provide for the common defense (Article I, Section 8). It also aligns with the power to raise and support armies. The creation of specialized positions within the DoD falls under the necessary and proper clause, allowing Congress to enact laws needed to execute its enumerated powers.
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).