Kay Bailey Supports an Internet Kill Switch?

I wrote to Sen. Hutchison to ask her position on the "Cyber Security" bill that is in Congress now. I think this reply means she supports it:

"Dear Friend:
Thank you for contacting me regarding cybersecurity legislation. I welcome your thoughts and comments.

As the Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, I am committed to improving the security of America’s information infrastructure, and to ensuring that consumers continue to benefit from innovations in technology. The Internet is a valuable tool that facilitates business, education, and recreation for millions of Americans. In 2009, an estimated 198 million Americans had access to the Internet at home or work. Unfortunately, as the nation has become more dependent on digital systems and networks, our vulnerability to cyber attacks has increased. With the new Cyber Command headquartered at Lackland Air Force Base and the cutting-edge research being done at our universities, Texas is in the forefront of America’s effort to meet the cyber challenge.

The Senate has made progress on cybersecurity. On March 24, 2010 the Commerce Committee held an executive session on S. 773, the Cybersecurity Act of 2010, sponsored by Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV). Among other things, this bill would require the government and the owners of critical infrastructure (such as power plant operators) to implement risk management measures and industry best practices to combat cyber threats. The bill would also require the training and certification of cybersecurity workers; clarify the President’s ability to declare cyber emergencies; support research and development; and promote cybersecurity education. During the Committee’s consideration of the bill, I successfully offered several amendments, including changes to improve public-private collaboration on emergency response plans and limit the bill’s mandatory requirements to truly critical infrastructure.

I support efforts to protect the United States from the growing cyber threats against our nation. However, we also need to carefully consider the connection between new government mandates, such as the training and certification requirements of S. 773, and anticipated security gains. I have been particularly concerned about the potential cost to small and mid-sized businesses under these obligations. I hope that the views of affected stakeholders and other relevant Committees will continue to be incorporated into any legislation dealing with cybersecurity.

S. 773 was not considered by the full Senate prior to adjournment of the 111th Congress. Should this legislation be reintroduced in the 112th Congress, you may be assured I will keep your views in mind.

I appreciate hearing from you, and I hope that you will not hesitate to contact me on any issue that is important to you.

Sincerely,
Kay Bailey Hutchison
United States Senator

284 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
202-224-5922 (tel)
202-224-0776 (fax)
http://hutchison.senate.gov

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Thank you. "