Technology

Sen. Dan Coats (R-Ind.) used the anniversary of Sept. 11 to highlight a looming security threat — a cyberattack.

Coats said Congress must act on the cybersecurity bill before it’s too late, comparing it to the intelligence breakdowns ahead of 9/11.

Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) applauded the U.S. Department of Commerce’s appointment Monday of 12 members to the Board of First Responder Network Authority, also known as “FirstNet.”

The Wireless Innovation and Public Safety Act created a public safety broadband network for first responders so that there wouldn’t be network interference during emergencies since they’d have designated broadband lines for emergency purposes. The bill, signed by President Obama in February, mandated the creation of a single, nationwide interoperable broadband network for America’s first responders.

The Senate chamber is undergoing some restoration work over the August break to have its telecommunications equipment upgraded, as well as some "floor action" of a sort — an assessment and repair of the Senate floor, plus a new carpet.

The Office of the Senate Sergeant at Arms said the work is expected to take all of the five weeks of break to complete, and said the new carpet will be identical in design to the one currently in the chamber.

The failure likely kills any legislative action on cybersecurity this year, punting efforts to 2013.

He said Republicans oppose the legislation because the Chamber of Commerce doesn't like it.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said it’s “scary” that the cybersecurity bill is stalling.

“It’s scary that we’re not doing something on this bill,” Reid said on the floor Wednesday morning. “The nation’s top security experts have said a cyber 9/11 is imminent.”

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) on Tuesday filed a motion to end debate and proceed to the cybersecurity bill.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) urged those working on the cybersecurity bill to come up with a finite list of amendments soon.

“I’m going to be very patient,” Reid said on the floor Tuesday morning. “But I hope that can be done soon. There’s not a lot of time left to tread water.”

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) on Monday filed several amendments addressing privacy issues to the Cybersecurity Act being considered by the Senate this week.

The amendments include provisions that address breaches of personal data, video sharing and online law enforcement. Another amendment filed by Leahy would increase cybersecurity research and development.

“Developing a comprehensive strategy for cybersecurity is one of the most pressing challenges facing our nation today,” Leahy said in a statement Monday. “In the information age, stronger privacy protections are also needed to safeguard Americans’ personal information and private communications in cyberspace.”

Sen. Schumer suggested that Democrats make it clear that their goal is not to repeal the Second Amendment.