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New Law Creates Michigan Cyber-Security Corps

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The Michigan Cyber Civilian Corps is looking for a few good experts in internet security. As we hear from Michigan Public Radio’s Rick Pluta, the law creating the cyber-security team takes effect Thursday.

The group will be made up entirely of volunteers who are credentialed experts in cyber-security. They will have to pass criminal background checks, and will have the same immunity from lawsuits as state employees.

The group would be called to action if the state were hit with a virus attack or some other internet and the governor declared a “cyber-emergency,” says Tanya Baker with Governor Rick Snyder’s office.

“They are essentially volunteers who are experts in this area that come to the state’s aid in times of cyber-threat.” Says Baker.

The group will assist the state, local governments, businesses and individuals dealing with a cyber-emergency. Baker says there are about 20 people already qualified for the team, but the plan is to grow it more than 200 cyber-security experts. 

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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