The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson
Chairman Ranking Member
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Committee on Commerce, Science and
Transportation Transportation
United States Senate United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20510
Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce expresses its support for the MAIN STREET Cybersecurity Act, which is being introduced today. The legislation calls on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and other federal entities to assess the voluntary Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity and provide concise and consistent resources to small and midsize businesses (SMBs) on using the framework.
The legislation emphasizes industry and government efforts, which go back several years, to craft dynamic risk management tools that support SMBs, especially the framework. Indeed, the Chamber teamed up with Utah’s business community on March 23 in Salt Lake City to launch the 4th year of the Chamber’s national Cybersecurity Campaign. This public-private education initiative includes 5 regional events and its 6th Annual Cybersecurity Summit at the Chamber.
The Chamber has made economic growth its driving focus for 2017. Enhancements to America’s information security, particularly for SMBs, will help drive growth in our economy. SMBs, which account for a significant percentage of all U.S. businesses, are more innovative, agile, and productive than ever, owing to the capabilities delivered by information and communications technology. However, smaller organizations tend to lack the resources and expertise necessary for cybersecurity activities compared with larger ones. Government and business leaders should consider ways to help SMBs use the framework and analogous tools.
The Chamber appreciates the committee’s proactive approach to improving U.S. cybersecurity capabilities, as well as the positive discussions that we’ve had with staff. The Chamber urges the committee to support the MAIN STREET Cybersecurity Act and looks forward to continuing working together to advance the security and resilience of the business community and the nation.
Sincerely,
Neil L. Bradley
