Overview of the GENIUS Act

Full Name: Act for the Protection of Educational Networks and Infrastructures in the United States

Objective: To protect American school systems from cyberattacks and ransomware threats by providing assessments, resources, and guidance to enhance cybersecurity.

Date Introduced: First presented to Congress in 2023.

Sponsors: It has bipartisan support, with notable supporters including Representative Doris Matsui (Democrat - California) and Representative Gus Bilirakis (Republican - Florida).

🧩 Key Provisions of the Act

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Assessment

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is tasked with conducting a comprehensive study on the cybersecurity risks threatening schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12).

Resource Development

The administration works with stakeholders to develop voluntary guidelines and best practices to help schools address cyber threats.

Annual Report

A public report is issued that includes:

Risks and vulnerabilities in school networks

Recommendations for cost-effective measures to improve cybersecurity