H.R. 7885: Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act
The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act aims to enhance the cybersecurity skills of the workforce that manages critical infrastructure, such as utilities and transportation systems. The primary focus is on developing and integrating cybersecurity education into postsecondary career and technical education programs. Here are the key aspects of the bill:
Purpose
The bill's purpose is to improve the cybersecurity competencies of individuals operating critical infrastructure technology through appropriate educational programs.
Grant Program
A pilot program will be established to award competitive grants to eligible partnerships. These grants will support:
- The creation of new postsecondary career and technical education programs that include cybersecurity education.
- The incorporation of cybersecurity education into existing programs that aim to meet workforce demands in critical infrastructure sectors.
Funding and Grant Amounts
The Secretary of Education will provide grants that can reach a maximum of $500,000 per fiscal year for eligible partnerships.
Eligible Partnerships
To qualify for grants, eligible partnerships must include:
- A postsecondary education institution.
- Two or more employers from relevant critical infrastructure sectors that demonstrate a need for cybersecurity skills.
Optional partners may also include local government organizations, non-profits, and community educational agencies.
Grant Application Requirements
Partnerships seeking grants must submit applications detailing:
- The roles of each partner in the education program.
- The critical infrastructure sectors targeted.
- The specific cybersecurity skill needs of these sectors.
- How the program will result in recognized credentials for participants.
- Work-based learning opportunities and strategies for promoting diversity in the cybersecurity field.
- Plans for sustaining the education program after the grant period ends.
Regional Diversity
Grants will be distributed to ensure geographic diversity, providing opportunities across different regions.
Reporting Requirements
- Details of how the funds were used.
- The number of students who received credentials.
- Updates made to the cybersecurity education curriculum.
- The employment outcomes of program participants.
Authorization of Appropriations
The legislation authorizes an appropriation of $10 million for the purposes of this Act.
Definitions
The bill includes definitions for several key terms, such as:
- Critical Infrastructure: Defined as per the USA PATRIOT Act.
- Cybersecurity Education: Encompasses education focused on the cyber defense of critical systems.
- Work-Based Learning: Involves hands-on experience in real or simulated work environments related to the field.
- Recognized Postsecondary Credential: Defined in alignment with existing workforce legislation.
Relevant Companies
- CSCO (Cisco Systems, Inc.): As a major player in cybersecurity technology and infrastructure, Cisco may benefit from increased demand for cybersecurity education and training programs.
- RDU (Cybersecurity Stocks): Companies involved in providing cybersecurity services and solutions may see improved recruitment opportunities from a better-trained workforce.
This is an AI-generated summary of the bill text. There may be mistakes.
Sponsors
2 bill sponsors
Actions
2 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| Mar. 09, 2026 | Introduced in House |
| Mar. 09, 2026 | Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce. |
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