West Montgomery Times

A public hearing is set to take place this week to address the growing concern of cybersecurity threats faced by local governments and municipal authorities. The hearing, organized by the Senate Communications and Technology Committee and the Senate Local Government Committee, will aim to shed light on the vulnerabilities faced by Pennsylvania's over 2,500 local governments and authorities.

The joint hearing, scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 31, at 1 p.m., will take place in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building at the state capitol complex in Harrisburg. Sen. Tracy Pennycuick, who chairs the Senate Communications and Technology Committee, and Sen. Rosemary M. Brown, who chairs the Senate Local Government Committee, will oversee the proceedings.

Recent cyberattacks targeting the Bucks County emergency dispatch system and the Aliquippa Water Authority have highlighted the urgent need for heightened cybersecurity measures. These incidents have exposed the vulnerabilities present in the systems of local governments and authorities, putting critical infrastructure and sensitive information at risk.

To address these concerns, the joint panel will hear testimony from representatives of local governments and authorities, as well as cybersecurity experts. Their insights and expertise will aid in understanding the extent of the threats faced and will help in formulating effective strategies to combat cyberattacks.

In an effort to increase accessibility, the hearing will be livestreamed on SenatorPennycuick.com and SenatorBrown40.com. This will allow concerned citizens and stakeholders to stay informed and engaged with the proceedings, ensuring transparency and accountability in addressing this pressing issue.

The significance of this hearing cannot be overstated, as it underscores the importance of safeguarding the vital infrastructure and sensitive data of local governments and authorities. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial that robust cybersecurity measures are implemented to protect the interests of the public and ensure the smooth functioning of local government operations.

As we move forward, it is imperative that lawmakers, experts, and stakeholders come together to address the cybersecurity challenges faced by local governments and authorities. Only through collaboration and a comprehensive understanding of the threats can we hope to develop effective strategies to safeguard our critical systems and protect the public's interests.

Contact:

Mackenzie Mueller (Sen. Brown)

Matt Szuchyt (Sen. Pennycuick)