Georgia introduces House Bill 113 to strengthen cybersecurity in state purchasing

In a recent meeting of the Governmental Affairs Subcommittee, House Bill 113 was introduced, aiming to bolster cybersecurity measures within Georgia's state purchasing processes. This legislation is designed to protect the state's infrastructure and its citizens from increasing cybersecurity threats.

House Bill 113 directs the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) to create and maintain an updated list of companies and products that may pose cybersecurity risks. This list will serve as a crucial resource for the Department of Administrative Services and other state agencies, guiding their purchasing decisions to avoid introducing vulnerabilities into state systems.

The GTA, already collaborating with federal authorities, will leverage national intelligence to identify technologies flagged for security concerns, such as drones and WiFi routers. By making this list publicly available, the bill promotes transparency and encourages Georgians to take proactive steps in safeguarding themselves and their businesses against potential cyber threats.

Additionally, the bill outlines enforcement measures, imposing fines of up to $250,000 or triple the purchase value on foreign companies and third-party vendors that sell flagged products to state agencies. Notably, the legislation avoids naming specific countries, opting instead to adopt a federal definition of foreign adversaries, allowing for adaptability as global security dynamics shift.

This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in state operations and aims to enhance the safety and security of Georgia's residents and infrastructure. As the bill progresses, it underscores the state's commitment to staying ahead of evolving cyber threats.