[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 22, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E656-E657]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         INDUSTRIAL CONTROL SYSTEMS CYBERSECURITY TRAINING ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 21, 2022

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 
7777, the ``Industrial Control Systems Cybersecurity Training Act.''
  H.R. 7777 amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize the 
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to establish an 
industrial control systems training iniative that will strengthen the 
skills of our vital cyber-security workforce.
  Industrial control systems are the devices, systems, networks, and 
controls used to operate and automate the industrial functions that 
keep our Nation running.
  They are key components in manufacturing, electrical generation, 
wastewater treatment, and even oil refineries--all of which are 
necessary for the proper functioning of our country.
  While the technological revolution has streamlined many industrial 
services, it has also left us vulnerable to threats targeting our 
national utilities and infrastructure.
  The ``Industrial Control Systems Cybersecurity Training Act'' 
provides an instruction manual for training those on the frontlines of 
our defense.
  First, H.R. 7777 prioritizes increasing access to cybersecurity 
education courses.
  The Act would require the Director to make accessible to the public 
tuition-free virtual and in-person cyber security courses and trainings 
for varying skill levels.
  It would also ensure that these trainings be available across the 
country so that those working in even the most remote corners of 
America have the opportunity to develop their cybersecurity skills.
  Trainings would cover topics of cyber defense strategies, the 
evolution of cyber threats, and strategies for mitigating security 
vulnerabilities in industrial control systems.
  All of these courses would be crafted in collaboration with the 
National Laboratory of the Department of Energy and when necessary, 
consultation with expert private sector entities.
  Those who wish to harm our country are learning from the best 
criminals; therefore, we must equally arm our defenders right along 
side them.
  Secondly, H.R. 7777 requires the Director to provide reports on the 
initiative to the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Senate 
Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
  Through these reports, Congress would not only be able to monitor the 
quality of courses being offered, but would receive yearly 
recommendations on how to improve the education and training being 
offered.
  In addition to reporting on the contents of the classes taught, the 
Director would also be expected to provide information on the race, 
gender, and regional location of those in attendance.
  Through this monitoring process, Congress would be assured not only 
of current demographic diversity, but also the plans to expand access 
to industrial control systems cybersecurity training to women and 
underrepresented populations.

[[Page E657]]

  In today's increasingly interconnected world, it is critical that the 
United States produces highly trained cyber security professionals 
equipped to maintain America's security and defense.
  It is also critical that the initiatives utilized to provide for 
their education encapsulate the needs of our diverse and varied Nation.
  H.R. 7777 will put in place the framework needed to train the next 
generation of leaders in industrial control systems cybersecurity.
  That is why I rise in strong support of ``Industrial Control Systems 
Cybersecurity Training Act.''

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