#GENIUSActPass 🔐 Overview of the GENIUS Act

Full Name: Act to Protect Networks and Educational Infrastructure in the United States

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

Submission Date: First introduced in Congress in 2023.

Sponsors: Supported by both parties, with prominent supporters including Representative Doris Matsui (Democrat - California) and Representative Gus Bilirakis (Republican - Florida).

🧩 Key Provisions of the Act

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Assessment

Assigns the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to conduct a comprehensive study on the cybersecurity risks facing schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12).

Resource Development

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

Public Report

A public report is issued that includes:

Risks and vulnerabilities in school networks

Recommendations for cost-effective measures to improve cybersecurity

Highlighting the challenges faced by rural and underserved schools

Federal Coordination

Encourages collaboration between federal agencies, educational systems, and the private sector.