Bill > HB1468

This bill transfers the Cyber Maryland Program from the Maryland Technology Development Corporation to the Maryland Department of Labor, fundamentally restructuring its organizational framework and expanding its mission. The bill establishes the program's primary goals as creating a talent pipeline to reduce cybersecurity workforce vacancies, serving as a central hub for cyber workforce development, informing cybersecurity training programs, building a diverse and advanced state IT workforce, coordinating cybersecurity research and innovation, and supporting state government cybersecurity efforts. Starting in fiscal year 2026, the program will be required to award competitive grants focused on enhancing cybersecurity workforce development, with an initial potential allocation of $1,000,000 for establishing cybersecurity clinics targeting critical infrastructure sectors. The bill also creates a Cyber Maryland Fund to support these initiatives, with the Governor potentially including up to $3,100,000 in the annual budget for grant awards. The program will be overseen by a Cyber Maryland Board composed of representatives from various state agencies, private sector, educational institutions, and other stakeholders, with a focus on reflecting the state's demographic diversity. Additionally, the bill mandates annual reporting on the program's performance, including key metrics aligned with the state's strategic goals, and aims to develop comprehensive strategies for workforce development in the cybersecurity sector.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1468?ys=2025RS