Overview of the GENIUS Act

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

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

Date of Introduction: First introduced in Congress in 2023.

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

🧩 Key Provisions of the Act

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Assessment

It mandates 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 works 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 challenges faced by rural and underserved schools

Federal Coordination

Encourages collaboration among federal agencies, education systems, and the private sector.