As local governments expand their digital services and manage increasing volumes of sensitive data, understanding cybersecurity laws and regulations becomes essential. These laws are designed to protect public information, ensure transparency, and reduce risk across critical infrastructure and public-facing systems.
While some regulations apply nationwide, many cybersecurity laws are state-specific and subject to frequent updates. Municipal leaders must stay informed and consult legal counsel or state regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with the laws applicable in their jurisdiction. Staying current is key to avoiding penalties and building resilient cybersecurity programs that align with both federal and state requirements.
Below is an overview of key cybersecurity laws and standards that local governments and affiliated organizations should be familiar with:
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Jurisdiction: United States
HIPAA sets national standards for protecting health information. It applies to healthcare providers, insurers, and any entity handling patient data.
Key Provisions:
- Requires security safeguards for health information.
- Mandates breach notification and penalties for non-compliance.
- Grants patients rights to access and correct their records.
Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA)
Jurisdiction: United States
FISMA mandates that federal agencies and contractors secure their information systems using a risk-based approach aligned with NIST standards.
Key Provisions:
- Establishes security requirements for federal systems.
- Requires annual assessments and reporting.
- Aligns with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
State and Local Government Cybersecurity Act of 2021
Jurisdiction: United States
This law supports state and local governments with resources to strengthen cybersecurity and defend critical infrastructure.
Key Provisions:
- Provides grants for cybersecurity improvements.
- Enhances defense against infrastructure threats.
- Encourages collaboration across government levels.
Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA)
Jurisdiction: United States
CIRCIA requires timely reporting of cyber incidents and ransomware payments by critical infrastructure entities.
Key Provisions:
- Cyber incidents must be reported within 72 hours.
- Ransomware payments must be reported within 24 hours.
- Supports federal tracking and response efforts.
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)
Jurisdiction: United States
GLBA governs how financial institutions collect, use, and protect consumer financial data.
Key Provisions:
- Requires data security and privacy policies.
- Regulates data sharing and disclosure practices.
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)
Jurisdiction: Global
PCI DSS sets security standards for organizations handling payment card data.
Key Provisions:
- Requires encryption and secure transmission protocols.
- Mandates regular security assessments and audits.
Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2014
Jurisdiction: United States
This act promotes cybersecurity R&D and public-private collaboration to protect critical infrastructure.
Key Provisions:
- Encourages joint efforts between government and industry.
- Supports development of cybersecurity technologies.
- Establishes national protection standards.
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
Jurisdiction: California
CCPA gives residents control over their personal data and applies to businesses meeting certain thresholds.
Key Provisions:
- Right to access, delete, and opt out of data sale.
- Requires disclosure of data collection practices.
- Enforces penalties for mishandling personal data.
California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA)
Jurisdiction: California
CPRA expands CCPA protections and establishes a dedicated enforcement agency.
Key Provisions:
- Adds rights to correct inaccurate data.
- Limits use of sensitive personal information.
- Creates the California Privacy Protection Agency.
Cybersecurity compliance is a moving target. Local governments must stay informed, build governance structures that support accountability, and ensure that cybersecurity policies reflect current legal requirements. Understanding these laws is the first step toward building a secure, resilient digital environment for public service.
Local Government Cybersecurity Alliance 