Written by John Hewitt Jones
The Professional Services Council (PSC) has written to lawmakers, urging them to include cybersecurity and IT funding in President Biden’s $ 2 trillion infrastructure bill.
In a letter sent to leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives on Friday, the trade body said it was “disappointed” that the administration had not requested additional funding to address cybersecurity or the IT modernization of the government. federal government and industry as part of the package.
“In view of recent cyber attacks – including SolarWinds’ breach of government infrastructure and recent attacks on energy pipelines and water treatment facilities – and the Presidential Decree of May 12, 2021 on cybersecurity, the need for resources to adapt and operate safely in a constantly changing environment. The threat environment continues to grow, â€the trade group said in its letter. “The PSC and our member companies are supporting funding to meet these needs and requirements. This includes funding from CISA and the Technology Modernization Fund, as well as own funds to an agency to modernize outdated programs and systems. “
The PSC represents the government technology and professional services industry and has more than 400 member companies.
In its letter to lawmakers, the PSC also called for the bill to remove “no-value regulatory burdens†from government contractors by emphasizing streamlined contracting and permitting processes.
The group also called for additional investment and funding for research and development through the proposed new legislation.
“The PSC hopes Congress will continue to invest in and advance technologies that provide long-term solutions to the economic competitiveness and national security of the United States, and to determine how these investments will help federal agencies meet mission needs, â€he said in the note.
Democrats and Republicans continue to negotiate the U.S. jobs plan after President Biden released an initial $ 2.25 trillion proposal last month.
The GOP has since responded with a $ 568 billion infrastructure counter-offer, and last Friday the White House presented a new $ 1.7 trillion offer, which settles the $ 65 billion proposed by Republicans. for the financing of broadband and reduced the financing of the construction of roads and bridges.