Press Releases

Warner, Snowe Urge Action on Cyber Security Legislation

Call on Senate Leadership to reach an agreement to consider bill in July

Jun 19 2012

Cite ‘Tremendous Potential’ on Critical Infrastructure Compromise

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Olympia J. Snowe (R-ME), members of the both the Select Committee on Intelligence and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today urged the Senate Leadership to ensure transparent deliberation and a full and open debate on cyber security legislation this summer. In a letter to Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), the senators called on the chamber to put aside partisan politics to forge a viable process for considering cyber security legislation in the Senate and incentivizing private sector participation and collaboration in preparing our nation to defend against this emerging threat.

Senators Warner and Snowe said:

“Our national and economic security depends upon the resilience of our nation’s information networks, and it is essential that we be prepared to defend against cyber activity that could cause catastrophic damage and loss of life. Given the nature of the threat we face and the significance of the Senate’s actions in the coming weeks, it is essential that we not miss an opportunity to consider cyber security legislation in a non-partisan manner and pass a bill that has the momentum to become law.”

The Senators noted, “we are optimistic that when it comes to proposals for securing our critical infrastructure there is tremendous potential for this chamber to forge a viable solution.”

Specifically, Senators Warner and Snowe urged Leaders Reid and McConnell to reach an agreement on the process for considering cyber security legislation that:

  • Sets a firm timeline allowing for the legislation to be debated during the July work period
  • Commits to an open and fair process that permits any senator to offer pertinent amendments to perfect the legislation, insert additional provisions, or remove provisions from the bill.