Bill Aims to Expand Cyber Resources for Entrepreneurs

A pair of lawmakers have introduced a measure to expand access to cybersecurity resources for small businesses across the country. 

The Small Business Cybersecurity Assistance Act allows Small Business Development Centers to team with the Department of Homeland Security to consult with small businesses on how to bolster their cybersecurity. 

The bill also would also create a one-shop stop for federal cybersecurity information for small businesses and require DHS to develop cybersecurity materials and training programs for SBDCs to use in supporting small businesses.  

Sens. Gary Peters, D-Mich., ranking member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Marco Rubio, R-Fla., chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the bill.

Peters said in a statement the consequences of a breach can be harrowing for a small business. 

“Yet too many small business owners say they lack the resources they need to safeguard their businesses and customers from hackers, fraudsters, and cybercriminals,” he said. “This commonsense legislation will help ensure small businesses can access much needed information and training to secure their systems from malicious cyber-attacks.”