Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act
3/13/2024, 1:15 PMSummary of Bill S 2256
The Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act, also known as Bill 118 s 2256, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at addressing the growing need for cybersecurity professionals in the federal government. The bill seeks to expand the cybersecurity workforce by providing funding for training programs, scholarships, and other initiatives to attract and retain talented individuals in the field.Specifically, the bill calls for the establishment of a Cybersecurity Workforce Scholarship Program, which would provide financial assistance to individuals pursuing degrees or certifications in cybersecurity-related fields. Additionally, the bill would create a Cybersecurity Exchange Program, allowing federal employees to gain experience in the private sector and vice versa.
The Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act also emphasizes the importance of diversity in the cybersecurity workforce, calling for outreach and recruitment efforts to underrepresented groups. The bill aims to ensure that the federal government has a skilled and diverse workforce capable of addressing the evolving threats in cyberspace. Overall, the Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act is a bipartisan effort to strengthen the cybersecurity workforce in the federal government and enhance the nation's cybersecurity capabilities.
Congressional Summary of S 2256
Federal Cybersecurity Workforce Expansion Act
This bill establishes two pilot programs to train individuals in cybersecurity: an apprenticeship program and a program for veterans and military spouses.
First, the bill establishes an apprenticeship pilot program to train and prepare up to 25 participants per year for information technology, cybersecurity, or other cyber-related functions within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The bill authorizes DHS to implement the program via contracts with or grants to certain eligible entities (e.g., an education and training provider). Participants must agree to remain employed in a federal cyber workforce position for a specified period of time after the completion of the program.
Next, the bill establishes a pilot program to provide cybersecurity training to veterans and military spouses. The program must include
- coursework and training that, if applicable, qualifies for postsecondary credit toward an associate or baccalaureate degree at an institution of higher education;
- virtual learning opportunities;
- hands-on learning and performance-based assessments;
- federal work-based learning opportunities and programs; and
- the provision of recognized postsecondary credentials to eligible individuals who complete the pilot program.
When implementing the program for veterans and military spouses, DHS must coordinate with relevant agencies to (1) leverage existing education and training resources, (2) ensure that participants can use educational assistance while participating in the program, and (3) identify interagency opportunities that enable participants to acquire the competencies and capabilities necessary for federal employment.
Each pilot program is authorized to last for five years.
