HARTFORD, CT — Senator Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) applauded the Public Safety and Security Committee’s passage of Senate Bill 1319, establishing a Cybersecurity Task Force to assess and fortify Connecticut's cyber resilience. As a co-sponsor of the bill, Senator Hwang underscores the urgency of this initiative, which will work to combat criminal and illegal cyber activities, evaluate emerging artificial intelligence threats, and strengthen protections for residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
"Cyber threats are rapidly evolving, with AI-driven cybercrimes, ransomware attacks, and data breaches posing an unprecedented risk to our economy and public safety," said Senator Hwang. "This task force is critical to ensuring Connecticut has a proactive, coordinated, and adaptable cybersecurity framework that protects both private and public sector interests while addressing the growing intersection of AI and cybercrime."
Key Objectives of the Cybersecurity Task Force:
- Comprehensive Threat Oversight – The task force will establish a centralized structure for monitoring and responding to cybersecurity threats, ensuring state agencies, municipalities, and higher education institutions are equipped to counter digital attacks.
- Artificial Intelligence & Cybercrime Evaluation – The task force will assess how AI is being exploited for fraudulent schemes, ransomware, identity theft, and other illicit activities, recommending safeguards against these evolving threats.
- Critical Infrastructure Protection – Focused efforts will be made to secure Connecticut’s most vital IT systems, including government networks, power grids, financial institutions, and healthcare databases.
- Public-Private Sector Collaboration – By engaging with businesses, tech firms, and law enforcement, the task force will develop policies to combat cyber espionage, protect intellectual property, and ensure responsible data governance.
- Cybersecurity Awareness & Education – A key priority will be enhancing public knowledge of cybersecurity best practices, empowering individuals and businesses to guard against scams, phishing attacks, and digital fraud.
"We cannot allow Connecticut to become vulnerable to cyberattacks, but we also must ensure that businesses and innovators are not stifled by unnecessary regulatory burdens," said Hwang. "This task force will help craft smart, forward-thinking policies that strengthen cybersecurity while supporting economic growth and technological advancement."
The Cybersecurity Task Force at the suggestion of Committee leadership will submit its comprehensive findings and policy recommendations by January 1, 2027, outlining legislative and regulatory strategies to keep Connecticut ahead of emerging cyber threats.
The bill now moves to the full Senate and House of Representatives for final passage before it can be enacted into law.
"This is a vital step toward securing Connecticut’s digital future," added Senator Hwang. "With cybercriminals exploiting AI, ransomware, and social engineering at alarming rates, we must be vigilant, collaborative, and proactive in our cybersecurity approach. I am proud to champion this initiative and remain committed to safeguarding our communities, businesses, and critical institutions from digital threats."
State Senator Tony Hwang is Chief Deputy Republican Senate Leader and former Co-Chair of the Public Safety and Security Committee and Vice Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee advocating for policy analysis of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.