State of Florida - ISC

Federal Funding for Cyber Security: A “Crisis of Prioritization”The security of state networks has serious implications for homeland security, as it affects bothcontinuity of government and the operations of critical infrastructure. The states and federalgovernment must collaborate in cyber security protection, recovery and restoration. Despite theserious and urgent situation, it is often difficult for state CIOs to secure federal funding for theircyber security efforts. Cyber security protection must compete for funding against more visibleand politically appealing homeland security applications. NASCIO has been advocating beforeCongress for the establishment of a cyber security grant program dedicated to improving cyberprevention, protection, response, and recovery capabilities at both the state and local governmentlevels. In view of budget constraints, NASCIO has also been advocating that at minimum DHSand FEMA should set aside funding for cyber security programs and projects that DHS give higherpriority to state cyber security grants program to assist states. The purpose of the grant programwould be to demonstrate best practices, innovation and knowledge transfer regarding cybersecurity within State organizations. Funds would be used for supporting the enhancement ofcyber security preparedness in the states by assisting them with network sensing, intrusiondetection and security related operations equipment, expanding security awareness campaigns,assisting in restoration and recovery efforts in the event of a cyber attack, and providing technicaltraining and certification for protecting programs administered by the states.