While primarily focused on federal agencies and technology developers, a new executive order contains provisions that could benefit local governments. Among them are expanded cybersecurity services and workforce initiatives.
A new federal executive order directs federal agencies to strengthen cybersecurity defenses across critical infrastructure sectors, with particular attention to the opportunities and risks associated with advanced AI systems. As covered in an article from NACo, the order is primarily aimed at federal agencies and technology developers; however, several provisions could eventually benefit county governments seeking additional cybersecurity support.
Among the most relevant directives for local governments, the order instructs the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to expand efforts that provide cybersecurity tools and services to critical infrastructure operators. Counties, which manage everything from public safety communications and election systems to health services and more, could be among the entities that gain access to enhanced federal cybersecurity resources.
The order also calls for the creation of a voluntary cybersecurity clearinghouse where AI developers and critical infrastructure operators can collaborate to identify software vulnerabilities and share information about emerging threats.
In addition, federal agencies are directed to explore ways existing grant programs could support the development of AI-driven cybersecurity technologies and to expand efforts to recruit and retain cybersecurity professionals.
While the order does not impose new requirements on counties, it could create new opportunities for county governments to access federal cybersecurity services and advanced AI-enabled security tools. The order directs CISA to facilitate access to cybersecurity tools and services for state and local governments and operators of critical infrastructure.
The executive order reflects growing federal attention to both the cybersecurity opportunities and risks associated with increasingly sophisticated AI systems.
Stay tuned to Conduit Street for more information.
