# Plain Language Summary: Cyber Defense National Guard Act

This bill asks the government to study whether the United States should create a "Cyber Defense National Guard"—basically a reserve force of cybersecurity experts who could be called upon to defend the country's computer networks during major attacks or emergencies. Think of it like the National Guard, but instead of soldiers responding to natural disasters or security threats, these would be tech specialists ready to protect critical infrastructure like power grids, water systems, hospitals, and financial networks from cyberattacks.

The bill requires the Director of National Intelligence to work with the Defense Department and Homeland Security to investigate whether this idea would actually work. They need to figure out practical questions like how much it would cost, how many people would be needed, where to recruit them from (tech companies, universities, research labs), and what qualifications they'd need. The study also has to consider whether people without military or government experience could work effectively in this kind of organized structure, how to train them, and whether state governors could use them during local cyber emergencies.

The government has 240 days (about 8 months) to complete this study and report back to Congress with their findings. Importantly, the report will be public, though it can include a classified section if needed for security reasons. This bill doesn't actually create the Cyber Defense National Guard—it's just the first step to see if it's even feasible. The real decision about whether to move forward would come later if Congress decides the idea makes sense.

Cyber Defense National Guard Act

Jackson Lee, Sheila

Cyber Defense National Guard Act This bill requires the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to report to Congress regarding the feasibility of establishing a Cyber Defense National Guard. The report shall address topics including (1) the cost of creating a Cyber Defense National Guard, (2) the number of persons needed to defend critical U.S. infrastructure from a cyberattack, (3) the sources of potential members of the Cyber Defense National Guard, and (4) which federal government elements would be best equipped to train and manage the Cyber Defense National Guard.