Committee unanimously backs school cybersecurity standards bill adding LEA representation

Representative Wilcox presented HB 42 to require the cybersecurity commission to adopt standards aligned with nationally recognized practices and to add local education agency and charter-school representation to the commission.

Wilcox said a string of data breaches over the prior two years exposed student records statewide and that stronger standards in consultation with UETN and school technical staff would substantially reduce risk. "Adding LEA membership to the cybersecurity commission is critical," the sponsor said, arguing that including district and charter voices closes an important implementation gap.

Committee members praised the inclusion of local practitioners and moved to forward the third substitute to the full Senate with a unanimous favorable recommendation.