Issa Introduces Draft FISMA Legislation on Madison

Press Release

Today, Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif, introduced a draft of the Federal Information Security Amendments Act of 2012 on Madison allowing Americans to view the bill before formal introduction. This draft legislation enhances the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) of 2002 by improving the framework for ensuring security over information technology systems that support the federal government. It establishes a mechanism for stronger oversight through a focus on automated and continuous monitoring of cybersecurity threats and conducting regular threat assessments.

"This draft is the culmination of work by the Oversight Committee under both Democratic and Republican leadership," said Rep. Issa. "The draft and underlying strategy includes substantial input from both the private and public sectors. Every day, our nation's information systems are under attack. Congress and the rest of the Federal government must work diligently to prepare better defenses against attacks that continue to grow in both number and complexity."

Currently, federal agencies are struggling with cyber-security threats, and this update to FISMA will incorporate the last decade of technological innovation, while also addressing FISMA shortcomings realized over the past years. FISMA had become a compliance activity, even at times when compliance appeared to supersede security.

The OPEN Act in its draft form was released on www.KeepTheWebOpen.com allowing the public to view legislation, suggest changes, and vote on the changes suggested by others.

The bill is the product of years of House Oversight Committee fact-finding and close consultation with key stakeholders on the front lines of government and private-sector cybersecurity efforts -- including public full committee and subcommittee hearings.

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