Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and Angus King (I-Maine) have introduced the bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act to enhance cybersecurity in the health care and public health sectors following recent cyberattacks. Earlier this year, a ransomware attack on the health payment platform Change Healthcare underscored deficiencies in preparation and training during recovery efforts.

"In recent years, hospitals and other health care facilities in Indiana and across America have experienced a dramatic increase in cyberattacks," said Senator Young. "Our bipartisan bill will take critical steps to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure and better protect patients' personal data."

"The health care industry is still reeling from recent cyberattacks, and rural and small health care entities in Nevada have been particularly affected," stated Senator Rosen. "It's imperative that we take measures to improve cybersecurity in the health care sector to prevent data breaches and protect Nevadans, which is why I'm introducing this bipartisan legislation. I'll keep working to strengthen the cybersecurity of this critical sector and keep people safe from malicious actors."

"Healthcare cyberattacks are a growing threat nationwide, and also hit home for Maine, where several major healthcare systems have been compromised in recent years due to cybercrimes," commented Senator King. "These attacks and breaches of data can literally mean the difference between life and death for patients, significantly impact hospital operations, and — with the average hack costing millions to address — increase healthcare prices across the board. The bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act will take important steps toward protecting patients' data and healthcare provider capabilities, bolstering our cybersecurity infrastructure and response."

The Healthcare Cybersecurity Act mandates collaboration between the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to enhance cybersecurity measures. It aims to provide resources related to cyber threat indicators and defense strategies to non-federal entities. Additionally, it proposes establishing a special liaison within CISA dedicated to coordinating with HHS during cybersecurity incidents.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.