Congresswoman Torres Introduces Protecting America’s Cybersecurity Act
Bill Blocks DOGE Interference, Reinforces Congressional Oversight, and Restores CISA’s Cyber Defense Workforce
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) introduced the Protecting America’s Cybersecurity Act, legislation to safeguard the nation’s critical cybersecurity infrastructure from outside interference by DOGE and restore Congressional authority over resource decisions at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
The bill would take decisive action to protect the integrity of federal cybersecurity operations by prohibiting any DOGE agency teams from participating in or interfering with CISA’s mission. It also blocks the use of federal funds for the salary or expenses of any DOGE-affiliated personnel working at, transferred to, or detailed to CISA.
“In a time when our critical infrastructure is under constant threat, the last thing we need is politically motivated interference undermining our frontline cybersecurity defenses,” said Congresswoman Torres. “This bill restores essential Congressional oversight, protects our nonpartisan cyber workforce, and reaffirms our commitment to a secure, resilient digital future.”
Key provisions of the bill include:
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Prohibiting DOGE interference in national cybersecurity efforts by banning its personnel from working at CISA.
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Reinstating CISA federal workers who were improperly terminated or displaced from their roles protecting national cybersecurity.
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Restoring federal funding allocated by Congress to support CISA operations and staff.
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Requiring Congressional approval for any reduction in CISA staff or resources, ensuring transparency and accountability.
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Reaffirming CISA’s reporting requirements under the Cybersecurity Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022 (CIRCIA), including mandates on harmonization of cyber incident reporting.
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