Mississippi establishes Senate select committee to boost state cybersecurity

Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann announced the creation of a Senate select committee on cybersecurity to unify protection standards across state agencies and curb cybercrime targeting residents and tax dollars. The committee, co‑chaired by Senators Tyler McCaughn and Bart Williams, will focus on reporting requirements, coordination among hospitals, schools, utilities and water systems, and developing policies for prevention, prosecution and penalties.

The move follows a recent ransomware attack on the University of Mississippi Medical Center and a state audit showing that about one‑third of agencies were vulnerable. Hearings are set to begin this fall, with recommendations slated for the 2027 legislative session. Federal data cited by the lieutenant governor notes a 33% rise in internet‑crime losses nationwide, totaling over $16 billion in 2024.