New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4198

Introduced
2/19/26  

Caption

Requires New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to study cybersecurity infastructure and establish cybersecurity guidelines.

Impact

Upon completing the 12-month study, the NJCCIC is obliged to formulate and publish cybersecurity guidelines applicable to all public entities and private businesses in New Jersey. These guidelines must be implemented within a year of their release, with penalties established for entities that fail to comply. This mandatory implementation emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity preparedness across the state and reflects a proactive approach to addressing increasing cyber threats. Failure to adopt these guidelines could result in civil administrative penalties set by the Department of Homeland Security and Preparedness.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4198 requires the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) to conduct a comprehensive study of the state’s cybersecurity infrastructure. This study aims to assess potential cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities faced by public entities and private businesses operating within New Jersey. The NJCCIC is tasked with establishing parameters for this study, which includes reporting requirements for any cybersecurity incidents or breaches over a 12-month period. This initiative comes amid increasing concerns about cybersecurity and the growing frequency of cyberattacks targeting various sectors.

Contention

The key point of contention surrounding Assembly Bill A4198 lies in the mandate for public and private entities to adhere to specific cybersecurity guidelines enforced by the NJCCIC. While proponents may advocate that such regulations are necessary for enhancing the state's security posture, opponents could voice concerns about the operational burdens and compliance costs that small businesses might face. This landscape presents a debate between ensuring sufficient cybersecurity measures and maintaining a conducive working environment for businesses of all sizes.

Companion Bills

NJ S1225

Same As Requires New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to study cybersecurity infastructure and establish cybersecurity guidelines.

NJ S1053

Carry Over Requires New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to study cybersecurity infastructure and establish cybersecurity guidelines.

NJ A1204

Carry Over Requires New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to study cybersecurity infrastructure and establish cybersecurity guidelines.

Similar Bills

NJ A3959

Establishes Office of Cybersecurity Infrastructure.

NJ S1262

Requires businesses in financial essential infrastructure, and health care industries to develop cybersecurity plans and report cybersecurity incidents.

CA AB979

California Cybersecurity Integration Center: artificial intelligence.

NJ A1550

Requires adoption and implementation of cybersecurity standards by casinos and sportsbooks; establishes safe gaming certification program.

NM SB254

Cybersecurity Act & Office Changes

IN SB0472

Cybersecurity.

NJ A1549

Establishes Gaming Cybersecurity Intelligence and Response Council.

NJ S2940

Establishes Office of Cybersecurity Infrastructure.