States plead with Congress: Keep cybersecurity funding intact, not taken

TLDR:

State and local government associations are urging Congress to preserve $100 million in cybersecurity funding already approved through the State and Local Cyber Security Grant Program. The program has helped improve cybersecurity protocols in the public sector, but faces challenges with matching requirements. State and local governments are concerned about potential clawbacks of funding.

A cohort of state and local government associations, including NASCIO, National Governors Association, and National League of Cities, wrote a letter to congressional leaders urging them not to redirect $100 million in cybersecurity funding approved through the State and Local Cyber Security Grant Program.

The letter expressed concern over potential rumors of clawing back funding and emphasized the importance of sustained federal funding for continued cyber enhancements in the public sector.

State and local governments have seen benefits from the program, such as implementing basic security protocols and collaborative cybersecurity programs, but have also faced challenges with the steep matching requirements and uncertainty about the future funding outlook.

NASCIO has voiced critiques of the program, including the need for quicker funding dispersal and clearer guidance on allowable uses of the funding. State and local governments are wary of funding being redirected, as it could hinder efforts to secure the nation’s networks.