RELATING TO HOMELAND SECURITY.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Saiki

HB 2461 establishes a Hawaiʻi Cybersecurity Coordinator to enhance collaboration on cybersecurity and infrastructure security, protecting residents and improving readiness.

Reported from PSM/LBT (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3164) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.

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Overview

Bill Number: HB 2461
Introduced: January 22, 2024
Status: Reported from PSM/LBT with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to WAM.
Primary Sponsor: Representative Saiki
Companion Bill: SB 3150

The purpose of HB 2461 is to enhance the state's homeland security framework, focusing on economic stability, education, cybersecurity, and infrastructure security. The bill aims to establish a more coordinated approach to these critical areas to better protect the state and its residents.

Key Provisions

Establishment of a Coordinator: The bill proposes the creation of a Hawaiʻi Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Coordinator position. This role will be responsible for overseeing and coordinating efforts related to cybersecurity and infrastructure security across various state agencies.

Enhanced Collaboration: The Coordinator will facilitate collaboration between state, local, and federal agencies, as well as private sector partners, to strengthen the overall security posture of Hawaiʻi.

Focus Areas: The bill emphasizes the importance of:

Economic security
Educational initiatives related to cybersecurity
Infrastructure security measures

Reporting Requirements: The Coordinator will be required to provide regular reports on the state of cybersecurity and infrastructure security, including assessments of vulnerabilities and recommendations for improvements.

Impact

Who Will Be Affected:

State agencies involved in cybersecurity and infrastructure management
Local governments and municipalities
Private sector entities that collaborate with the state on security initiatives
Residents of Hawaiʻi, who will benefit from improved security measures

Potential Benefits:

Improved coordination and response to cybersecurity threats
Enhanced protection of critical infrastructure
Increased public awareness and education regarding cybersecurity issues

Legislative Timeline

January 22, 2024: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.

February 1, 2024: Reported from JHA with amendments and referred to FIN.

February 22, 2024: Passed Second Reading as amended and referred to the committee on FIN.

February 29, 2024: Passed Third Reading in the House with no votes against.

March 7, 2024: Referred to PSM/LBT and WAM in the Senate.

March 15, 2024: Recommended for passage with amendments by both PSM and LBT committees.

March 20, 2024: Report adopted; passed Second Reading in the Senate and referred to WAM.

Conclusion

HB 2461 represents a significant step toward enhancing the security infrastructure of Hawaiʻi. By establishing a dedicated Coordinator for cybersecurity and infrastructure security, the bill aims to foster collaboration and improve the state's readiness against potential threats. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and implementation of the bill's provisions.

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