South Delco News

Legislation introduced by Representatives Craig Williams and Valerie Gaydos to authorize the use of the Pennsylvania National Guard in combating cybercrime has been approved by the Senate. The bill, which aims to leverage the Guard's expertise in cybersecurity, now awaits the governor's signature.

Williams and Gaydos, who co-chair the House Cybersecurity Caucus, emphasize the need for proactive measures against cyber threats. "As cybercrime continues growing, it’s critical that we find a proactive way to fight these criminals," Williams stated. He added that the legislation utilizes resources available within Pennsylvania through the National Guard.

House Bill 2412 seeks to empower military cybersecurity experts from the Pennsylvania National Guard to support state agencies with immediate assistance or training. Additionally, it allows these experts to aid non-government entities with cybersecurity education and exercises as needed.

Gaydos stressed urgency regarding the bill's enactment: "It is important that Gov. Wolf sign this bill right away," she said. She pointed out that expanding energy needs and infrastructure demand robust cybersecurity measures.

The necessity of such measures was highlighted by past incidents like a ransomware attack on Democrats in the Pennsylvania Senate in 2017 and recent fraudulent activities involving unemployment compensation checks.

Pennsylvania hosts two military cybersecurity teams: The Pennsylvania Army National Guard Defensive Cyber Operations and the Pennsylvania Air National Guard 112th Cyberspace Operations Squadron. These units focus on ensuring cyber preparedness and responding swiftly to incidents.

"Our bill would allow the Commonwealth to mobilize these experts through a special state duty status to protect our vital systems and secure personal information," Williams explained.