Senator Markey and Congressman Lieu Reintroduce Bill Seeking to Improve the Cybersecurity of IoT Technology

Senator Markey (D-MA) and Congressman Lieu (D-CA) have reintroduced the Cyber Shield Act. The proposed legislation will create a voluntary program to identify and promote internet-connected products that meet industry-leading cybersecurity and data security standards, guidelines, best practices, methodologies, procedures, and processes, and for other purposes. 

According to the legislators’ press release, the proposal will specifically establish an advisory committee of cybersecurity experts from academia, industry, consumer groups, government, and the public to create cybersecurity benchmarks for IoT devices – such as baby monitors, home assistants, smart locks, cameras, cell phones, and laptops. IoT manufacturers can then voluntarily certify that their products meet those cybersecurity benchmarks, and display this certification to the public with a “Cyber Shield” label that will help consumers identify and purchase more secure technology for their homes.”

The bill can be viewed here. 

Our reliance on technology has become even more vital with the effects of COVID-19. With all of the hacking and malware attacks we have witnessed against various data stakeholders, we foresee cybersecurity as a major policy area that will continue to be expanded.   

Lanton Law is a national boutique law andlobbying firm that focuses on technology and Health IT.If you are an industry stakeholder with questions about the current landscape or if you would like to discuss how your organization’s strategic initiatives might be impacted by either Congress, regulatory agencies or legal decisions,contact us today.

Congressional IoT Legislation Introduced to Prepare for 5G Networks.

Congresswoman DelBene (D-WA) and Congressman Katko (R-NY) have introduced the Internet of Things (IoT) Readiness Act of 2021. The bill proposes to direct the Federal Communications Commission to collect and maintain data on the growth in the use of Internet of Things devices and devices that use 5G mobile networks in order to determine the amount of electromagnetic spectrum required to meet the demand created by such use, and for other purposes. The proposed legislation can be viewed here. Both legislators are the co-chairs of the Internet of Things Caucus. 

COVID-19 has directly resulted in ramping up our technology needs. We foresee policymakers placing more emphasis on infrastructure, especially around communications and technology so that our country can remain competitive. 

Lanton Law is a national boutique law and lobbying firm that focuses on technology and Health IT. If you are an industry stakeholder with questions about the current landscape or if you would like to discuss how your organization’s strategic initiatives might be impacted by either Congress, regulatory agencies or legal decisions, contact us today.