H.R. 1766: NTIA Policy and Cybersecurity Coordination Act

The proposed bill, known as the NTIA Policy and Cybersecurity Coordination Act, aims to establish a new office within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) called the Office of Policy Development and Cybersecurity. This office is intended to enhance the government’s ability to oversee and develop policies related to telecommunications and cybersecurity.

Purpose and Structure

The bill proposes a structured approach to address issues in the rapidly evolving fields of telecommunications and digital security. Key features include:

• Creation of the Office: The new office will have a dedicated head known as the Associate Administrator for Policy Development and Cybersecurity. This individual will report to the Assistant Secretary of the NTIA.
• Focus Areas: The office will focus on conducting national policy analysis for internet and communication technologies, promoting innovation, and ensuring access and security across communication platforms.

Duties of the Associate Administrator

The Associate Administrator will have a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Policy Development: Advocating for market-based policies that encourage innovation, competition, and economic growth in communication and technology markets.
• Conducting Studies: Carrying out studies on how U.S. citizens access and utilize various communication services, including the internet and telephony.
• Cybersecurity Policies: Coordinating transparent processes for developing and implementing cybersecurity and privacy policies related to internet and communication networks.
• Collaboration: Enhancing collaboration between security researchers, communication service providers, and software developers.
• Presenting Security Policies: Engaging with the Commission and Congress on issues related to the digital economy and cybersecurity efforts.
• Assistance and Advice: Providing assistance to the Assistant Secretary in evaluating the implications of cybersecurity issues within various governmental contexts.
• Innovation Promotion: Advocating for policies that support the security and resilience of communication networks while promoting technological advancements.
• Data Access: Ensuring public access to relevant data and research regarding innovation and commercialization in communications technologies.

Transitional Arrangements

The bill also addresses transitional aspects:

• The current position of Associate Administrator for Policy Analysis and Development will be renamed to Associate Administrator for Policy Development and Cybersecurity, and the person currently holding this position will automatically transition into the new role.

Overall Goals

The overarching objectives of this legislation include:

• To improve the coordination and development of robust policy frameworks surrounding communication technologies.
• To bolster cybersecurity measures across the internet and communication networks, ensuring safer digital environments for users.
• To facilitate increased innovation and competition within the telecommunications sector.

Relevant Companies

• AAPL (Apple Inc.): May be impacted through increased regulatory scrutiny and policy development affecting consumer privacy and security in technology products.
• GOOGL (Alphabet Inc.): Likely to face new policies around data usage and privacy, influencing their advertising and communication services.
• MSFT (Microsoft Corporation): Could experience changes in compliance requirements for cybersecurity standards in their software and cloud services.
• AMZN (Amazon.com, Inc.): May see implications due to cybersecurity policies affecting their e-commerce and cloud services.