White House Issues New National Security Memorandum on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience

On April 30, 2024, the White House National Security Council(NSC) published the National Security Memorandum (NSM) on CriticalInfrastructure Security and Resilience, representing a significant update tothe nation's approach to protecting vital assets against evolving threats. Thismemorandum supersedes the previous Presidential Policy Directive 21 (PPD-21) onCritical Infrastructure Security and Resilience, which was established over adecade ago to set the national policy framework in this domain.

The decision to issue the NSM comes in response to amarkedly changed threat landscape since the inception of PPD-21. This landscapenow encompasses strategic competition, advancements in technologies likeArtificial Intelligence, and persistent cyber threats from nation-state actors.The memo underscores the need for heightened federal investment in U.S.critical infrastructure and a more robust, proactive stance against emergingrisks.

Key Objectives of the NSM

The NSM is crafted to ensure that U.S. criticalinfrastructure remains the cornerstone of a strong and innovative economy,capable of withstanding diverse threats and disruptions. Specifically, thememorandum aims to:

1. Strengthen Whole-of-Government Efforts: TheDepartment of Homeland Security (DHS) is designated to lead a coordinatedeffort across federal agencies to bolster the security and resilience ofcritical infrastructure. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency(CISA) will serve as the National Coordinator for the Security and Resilienceof U.S. Critical Infrastructure.

2. Reaffirm Sector-Specific Responsibilities: The NSMreaffirms the identification of 16 critical infrastructure sectors, with eachsector having a designated federal department or agency responsible formanaging associated risks.

3. Enhance Security and Resilience Standards: Thememorandum elevates the importance of establishing minimum security andresilience requirements across critical infrastructure sectors, emphasizing thenecessity of proactive risk management in the face of evolving threats.

Implications of the NSM 

The NSM represents a strategic shift towards a morecomprehensive and integrated approach to critical infrastructure security andresilience. By empowering federal agencies to lead concerted efforts,reinforcing sector-specific responsibilities, and emphasizing minimum securitystandards, the memorandum seeks to fortify the nation's capacity to respondeffectively to potential disruptions and safeguard the well-being of Americancitizens.

Conclusion 

The release of the National Security Memorandum on CriticalInfrastructure Security and Resilience reflects the White House's commitment toadapting to the dynamic threat environment and ensuring the longevity andsecurity of U.S. critical infrastructure. By establishing a framework thatprioritizes collaboration, accountability, and proactive risk management, theNSM aims to bolster national security and resilience, enabling the UnitedStates to navigate future challenges with confidence and resilience.

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