New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1982

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Requires instruction on cybersecurity in grades nine through 12; requires Office of Secretary of Higher Education to develop cybersecurity model curricula; establishes loan redemption programs for individuals in certain cybersecurity occupations.

Impact

The implementation of A1982 is intended to enhance the educational framework regarding cybersecurity, with an eye toward preparing students for future careers in this increasingly vital field. It also aims to address the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, thus impacting state employment and economic growth in the technology sector. Educators will also receive a structured model curriculum to better prepare them to teach these essential skills and knowledge.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1982 proposes to integrate cybersecurity education into the New Jersey high school curriculum for grades nine through twelve. This bill mandates that school districts include appropriate lessons on cybersecurity within their course offerings, fostering an understanding of critical concepts such as safe internet use, the fundamentals of computer hardware and software, as well as career pathways in cybersecurity. Curriculum guidelines will be designed by the Commissioner of Education in collaboration with various state departments including the Office of Homeland Security and the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell.,

Contention

Notably, A1982 includes the establishment of two loan redemption programs aimed at encouraging graduates and teachers specializing in cybersecurity. The programs provide financial incentives in the form of $1,000 per year for qualified individuals working in approved cybersecurity occupations or teaching related subjects in New Jersey. While supporters argue this will stimulate interest and careers in cybersecurity, critics may raise concerns about the allocation of funding and resources among educational programs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1297

Requires instruction on cybersecurity in grades nine through 12; requires Office of Secretary of Higher Education to develop cybersecurity model curricula; establishes loan redemption programs for individuals in certain cybersecurity occupations.

NJ S3880

Requires instruction on cybersecurity in grades nine through 12; requires Office of Secretary of Higher Education to develop cybersecurity model curricula; establishes loan redemption programs for individuals in certain cybersecurity occupations.

NJ S2940

Establishes Office of Cybersecurity Infrastructure.

NJ S1262

Requires businesses in financial essential infrastructure, and health care industries to develop cybersecurity plans and report cybersecurity incidents.

NJ A3959

Establishes Office of Cybersecurity Infrastructure.

NJ S2862

Requires school districts to provide instruction on artificial intelligence; requires Secretary of Higher Education to develop artificial intelligence model curricula.

NJ S1225

Requires New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to study cybersecurity infastructure and establish cybersecurity guidelines.

NJ A4198

Requires New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to study cybersecurity infastructure and establish cybersecurity guidelines.

NJ A4352

Requires school districts to provide instruction on artificial intelligence; requires Secretary of Higher Education to develop artificial intelligence model curricula.

NJ A1368

Requires certain State employees to receive training in cybersecurity best practices.

Similar Bills

NJ A3959

Establishes Office of Cybersecurity Infrastructure.

NJ S1262

Requires businesses in financial essential infrastructure, and health care industries to develop cybersecurity plans and report cybersecurity incidents.

CA AB979

California Cybersecurity Integration Center: artificial intelligence.

NJ A1550

Requires adoption and implementation of cybersecurity standards by casinos and sportsbooks; establishes safe gaming certification program.

NM SB254

Cybersecurity Act & Office Changes

NJ S2940

Establishes Office of Cybersecurity Infrastructure.

NJ A1549

Establishes Gaming Cybersecurity Intelligence and Response Council.

TX HB150

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command and the transfer to it of certain powers and duties of the Department of Information Resources.