Citing a July 29 memo from the Department of Homeland Security, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp is ordering cybersecurity training for public sector workers in the state. The federal memo warns state and local governments about the increasing frequency of cyberattacks and encourages public sector leaders to remain vigilant.
Governor Kemp issued an executive order outlining his plan for security training following several high profile attacks on Georgia’s government systems. In an executive order, he said that the state needed to address cyber intrusions, prioritize intergovernmental cybersecurity and enhance the protection of critical data.
In order to meet those objectives, the state will reconstitute its State Government Systems Cybersecurity Review Board to include the Adjutant General of Georgia; Georgia’s CISO; the director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations; director of emergency management and homeland security agency, and the executive director of the Georgia Cyber Center at Augusta University. The governor’s technology advisor will serve as chair.
The reconstituted board will be tasked with establishing reviewing current cybersecurity practices for compliance and recommending updated training and operations as needed.
Alongside this work, the Georgia Technology Authority has also been ordered to create and present full cybersecurity coursework for public sector employees. Workers have a 90-day window to complete an initial cybersecurity training, plus any additional education required by their position. Failure to complete the training could result in termination. The order extends to all workers in the executive branch.
