Governor announces Cybersecurity Commission

PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island is establishing the state’s first cybersecurity commission to better ensure security in the cyber world and support job creation within the sector, Gov. Gina M. Raimondo announced Thursday.
“We must be innovative and develop a clear strategy to prepare the public and private sector for the technological challenges of the 21st century,” Raimondo said in a press release. “Technology is a constant in our daily lives, from our health and safety to our economy. In addition to putting the appropriate cyber safeguards in place, we will also find creative ways to grow this sector of our economy and bring new jobs and opportunity to Rhode Island.”
Scott DePasquale, chairman and CEO of Utilidata, will be commission chairman. He said he is eager to take on this lead role.
“In addition to the importance of securing our state’s cyber-resources, the governor recognizes the role that innovation in cybersecurity can play in driving Rhode Island’s economy,” DePasquale said.
Two action plans are targeted with one due Oct. 1 and the second, Dec. 1.
The first plan will assess cybersecurity infrastructure and activities within all executive branch agencies and recommend ways to enhance the resiliency of government operations.
The second plan will focus on supporting economic growth of the cybersecurity sector and workforce.
U.S. Sens. Jack F. Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with U.S. Reps. James R. Langevin and David N. Cicilline, praised the initiative.
“Cybersecurity presents some of the greatest challenges for Rhode Island and our country today, but it also offers unprecedented opportunities to create new jobs and demonstrate innovation in state government,” Cicilline said.
The members of the commission will include the directors of the R.I. Emergency Management Agency, the Rhode Island National Guard, the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Business Regulation, the Office of Digital Excellence and the Executive Office of Commerce.
The commission will also include one representative each from a quasi-public agency and a municipal entity.
Also included will be at least three representatives from research institutions in Rhode Island and representatives from the defense, financial services information technology and energy sectors of business, the governor said.

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