Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2870

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

National Security on State Devices and Networks Act; create.

Impact

The introduction of SB2870 has significant implications for state law regarding technology use within state agencies. It amends existing law to ensure that the Department of Information Technology Services develops an acceptable use policy that restricts the operation of social media accounts such as TikTok by state officials. This policy mandates that all state agencies adopt specific guidelines detailing how state devices should be used, emphasizing that such devices are strictly for business purposes and prohibiting personal use, thereby potentially transforming the current landscape of device management within state government.

Summary

Senate Bill 2870, officially titled the 'National Security on State Devices and Networks Act,' is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the security protocols surrounding state-issued electronic devices and networks in Mississippi. The bill specifically prohibits state employees from downloading or accessing the TikTok application on any state-issued devices or networks, reflecting broader national security concerns regarding the application and its ownership by a Chinese company, ByteDance. The intent is to mitigate perceived risks associated with data security and privacy for state resources.

Contention

Notably, the bill raises contention around issues of personal freedom and government oversight. Critics argue that it could be viewed as overreach, compromising agency employees' rights to access information and communicate via popular platforms. Furthermore, the bill exempts several state entities, including the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Mississippi State University services, from its provisions, which could lead to discussions regarding equitable application of technology policies among different state departments. As such, the bill could be both a step towards enhanced security and a source of debate regarding privacy and freedom of expression.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS S408

No High Risk Apps/Gov't Networks & Devices

MS HB4235

Public employees and officers: state; use of certain applications on state devices; prohibit. Creates new act.

MS HB1188

Providing for protection of State-owned electronic devices and networks from applications controlled by foreign adversaries.

MS SB2040

Connected Vehicle National Security Review Act

MS HB1727

State Security Operations Center; create within ITS to serve as operational arm of statewide cybersecurity.

MS HB7567

Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026

MS SB00141

An Act Prohibiting The Use Of Certain Social Networking Applications On State Government Electronic Equipment.

MS HB1367

MS Farm & Food Security Act of 2026; create.

MS HB328

National Guard; legal services office and legal assistance program created

MS SB198

National Guard; legal services office and legal assistance program created

Similar Bills

NJ S3608

Provides for uniform regulation of small wireless facility deployment in this State.

MN SF1384

Requirements for permitting small wireless facilities modification

NJ A4135

Clarifies that application to collocate wireless communications equipment be reviewed by administrative officer.

IL HB3488

SCH CD-WIRELESS COMM DEVICE

IL SB2427

SCH CD-WIRELESS COMM DEVICE

NM SB164

Wireless Consumer Infrastructure Changes

VA HB876

Zoning; wireless facilities, temporary support structures.

VA HB876

An Act to amend and reenact ยง 15.2-2316.3 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 15.2-2316.4:4, relating to zoning; wireless facilities; temporary support structure.