House passes Rep. Bresnahan’s cybersecurity legislation

https://www.timesleader.com/news/1746753/house-passes-rep-bresnahans-cybersecurity-legislation

Publish Date: 2026-06-23 17:28:00

WILKES-BARRE — The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed cybersecurity legislation co-led by Rep. Rob Bresnahan, R-Dallas Township, on Tuesday.

The Small Business Cybersecurity Assistance Evaluation Act of 2026 aims to ensure small businesses are protected from cybersecurity risks by studying the effects these attacks can have on small businesses.

The legislation was first passed out of the House Committee on Small Business on May 20, by a bipartisan vote of 23-0.

“In the United States, small businesses are 210% more likely to experience cyber incidents compared to larger companies,” said Bresnahan. “Despite this, many of our small businesses lack the resources and expertise necessary to defend against these threats. This legislation will help ensure that as cyber threats continue to evolve, our support systems for small businesses evolve as well.”

Specifically, the legislation directs the U.S. General Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate Federal cybersecurity assistance to small businesses. The bill would require a study to analyze cyber risks, vulnerabilities, and current initiatives, and to identify shortcomings in current preventive and mitigation measures.

“Small businesses are the foundation of Main Streets across the country, and we cannot leave them behind as digital infrastructure becomes more unpredictable,” said Bresnahan. “By finding the gaps in current programs, this bill will give our small businesses better access to the tools, training, and resources they need to strengthen their defense against cyberattacks.”

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