Technology

Senate backs wide array of cyber projects in 2015 approps bill

Cybersecurity projects and programs are getting some hefty backing from the Senate.

Federal News Radio Custom Media@WTOPWFEDcustom

June 16, 2014 9:14 am

< a min read

Cybersecurity projects and programs are getting some hefty backing from the Senate.

The 2015 appropriations bill for the Departments of Commerce, Justice and science agencies funds various programs that would increase security of government networks, target cyber crooks and help swell the ranks of cyber professionals.

Under the bill, the Justice Department would be given the funds it needs to hire nine new attorneys to prosecute cyber cases.

The bill also provides $15 million to NIST to help build its National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Maryland, according to FCW.

As for cyber research, the National Science Foundation would be given $159 million for cyber grants. The agency would also receive $45 million for a scholarship program aimed at training the next generation of federal cyber professionals.