9–8–8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act

9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act

This bill requires the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to undertake efforts to protect the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline from cybersecurity threats. (The lifeline is a three-digit number that connects callers in suicidal crisis or mental health distress to a national network of crisis centers.)

The bill also expands related reporting requirements. Specifically, the network administrator for the lifeline must report identified cybersecurity incidents and vulnerabilities to SAMHSA, and local and regional crisis centers that participate in the lifeline must report identified cybersecurity incidents and vulnerabilities to the administrator.

Additionally, the Government Accountability Office must conduct a study that evaluates cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities associated with the lifeline and report the findings to Congress.

The Bill 118 s 1493, also known as the 9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act, aims to address cybersecurity concerns related to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The bill requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish and enforce cybersecurity standards for the Lifeline, which provides a critical service for individuals in crisis.

The legislation mandates that the FCC work with relevant stakeholders to develop these standards, taking into account best practices and industry guidelines. The goal is to ensure that the Lifeline's infrastructure and data are protected from cyber threats, safeguarding the sensitive information of those seeking help.

Additionally, the bill requires the FCC to regularly assess and report on the Lifeline's cybersecurity measures, providing transparency and accountability to the public. By strengthening the cybersecurity of the Lifeline, the legislation aims to maintain the trust and reliability of this vital service for individuals in need. Overall, the 9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act seeks to enhance the security and resilience of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, ensuring that it can continue to effectively support individuals in crisis while safeguarding their privacy and sensitive information.