Ruppersberger Calls on Congress to Pass Intel Authorization
Especially in Wake of Recent Attacks of American Websites

(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) is calling on Congress to pass the 2010 Intelligence Authorization Act, especially in the wake of recent attacks on American Web sites.  The bill increases spending on a variety of current cybersecurity efforts and provides initial investment in new initiatives, including hiring new personnel to develop additional, cutting-edge capabilities to stay ahead of our enemies and protect our nation’s critical infrastructure.  Over the 4th of July holiday weekend, hackers attacked Web sites at the Treasury Department, Secret Service, Federal Trade Commission and Transportation Department, disabling them for various periods of time.     

“The time to act is now.  The investments made in the 2010 Intelligence Authorization Act are critical as we beef up our cybersecurity efforts.  This most recent attack proves even more vividly that this threat is real.  Congress must act now to keep our country safe and protect our nation’s networks,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD), Chairman of Technical and Tactical Subcommittee, which oversees the technical aspects of cybersecurity. 

Our nation’s cyber networks control much of what we do every day.  They power our computers, our cell phones, our Blackberries, and our I-pods.  They power the electrical grid that allows us to turn the lights on, the classified military and intelligence networks that keep us safe, and the broadband networks that link our homes, our schools, our hospitals, and our businesses through the World Wide Web.  The 2010 Intelligence Authorization Act is expected to be brought to the House floor on Thursday.  

The Obama Administration recently completed a thorough, 60-day review of our nation’s cybersecurity efforts and created a road map for the future.  President Obama says he will hire a new “Cyber Czar”, one person responsible for protecting America’s vital networks. 

“I believe it is critically important that we have ‘one boss’ managing our cyber security efforts across the public and private sectors.  For the ‘cyber czar’ to be effective, the person must have direct access to the President, budget authority, and hiring authority to recruit the staff needed to execute the recommendations highlighted in the 60-day review.  I look forward to working together with the ‘cyber czar’ to protect our country from future threats,” said Congressman Ruppersberger.             

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