Coats: Congress Must Act on Cyber Security

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Dan Coats (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, issued the following statement today regarding recent news that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) announced plans to bring cyber security legislation back to the Senate floor in November:

“It is imperative that Congress pass cyber security legislation this year given the threat of cyber attacks against our government and key sectors of our economy. I am pleased the Senate Majority Leader finally has agreed to bring cyber security legislation back to the Senate floor after abruptly cutting off bipartisan negotiations in August.  I hope this action reflects a recognition that an Executive Order simply cannot provide the statutory authorities and protections needed to address the serious danger posed by cyber attacks.

“The threat of a cyber attack is real and growing, but neither industry nor government alone can broadly improve our nation’s cyber security.  This potentially devastating vulnerability requires all stakeholders to work together to develop an enduring legislative solution. Protecting Americans from cyber attacks should not be a partisan issue. When bringing cyber security legislation to the Senate floor in November, the Senate Majority Leader should allow an open and thorough debate with the opportunity for both sides to offer amendments.  As a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I remain committed to working on legislation that strikes the right balance between strengthening security and respecting the privacy rights of Americans.”

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