"This is the first step in preventing what is best described as an electronic Pearl Harbor," said Andrews.  "I am enthusiastic that this legislation, cosponsored by my colleague Curt Weldon (R-Pa), Chairman of the Research and Development Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee, will provide private industry with the economic incentive to protect their technological infrastructure and subsequently the lives of innocent civilians from the real threat of cyber terrorists."

Last month Congressman Andrews highlighted the need for this legislation during a press conference at a PSE&G power switching station in Gloucester City where he demonstrated the dangers to private industries that pose as potential targets for cyber-terrorists attempting to cause wide-spread destruction among the civilian population of the U.S.  One week after Andrews press conference, the world witnessed first hand the damage caused as a result of cyber terrorism by way of the "Love Bug" virus.  Computer systems in virtually every industry, throughout the world were crippled for more than 24 hours.  Fortunately, there were no reports of serious injuries, however the outages cost companies billions of dollars in lost time and this attack demonstrated the United States vulnerability to other would-be attackers.

Andrews’ legislation will provide federal loan guarantees administered through the Department of Defense (DOD) to allow private entities that serve a public role to harden their computer infrastructure to prevent infiltration that would pose a threat to public safety.  The Andrews plan adds a strong incentive for business and industry to increase their cyber-defenses.  His plan will provide up to $100 million in loans in the first year to help businesses, utilities and local governments harden our national defenses against cyber attacks. 

Andrews’ amendment was included as part of the House Defense Authorization bill for FY 2001, which was approved by a vote of 353 to 63 (19 members did not vote).