State Senator Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, today announced passage of her legislation to create the Ohio Cyber Reserve—a new division of the Ohio National Guard that specializes in cyber security.
“Cyber attacks are a growing threat, and will only continue to become more complex and dangerous,” said Gavarone. “I am proud to sponsor legislation establishing this new force, and I am confident that it will become a critical component for enhancing Ohio’s cyber security. I thank Senate leadership, Secretary LaRose and Adjutant General Harris for their support and efforts to make the security and integrity of our elections a top priority.”
The new force will consist of qualified, civilian cyber security experts and will maintain regional Cyber Response Teams capable of deterring, mitigating, and remedying cyber-attacks against our local governments, businesses, critical infrastructure and citizens.
Additionally, the legislation includes language to give voters even more confidence that the results of elections are accurate, Gavarone said.
In collaboration with Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Senate Bill 52 will also require post-election audits to be conducted in all years, not just even-numbered election years. A chief information security officer will also be appointed to advise the Secretary of State on matters of information security.
Senate Bill 52 will now go to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration.
