The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday unanimously approved bipartisan legislation cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan (R-PA) that would direct the U.S. General Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate federal cybersecurity assistance to America’s small businesses.
The Small Business Cybersecurity Assistance Evaluation Act of 2026, H.R. 8880, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-CA), would require the GAO to also study the effects these attacks can have on small businesses.
“In the United States, small businesses are 210 percent more likely to experience cyber incidents compared to larger companies,” Rep. Bresnahan said. “Despite this, many of our small businesses lack the resources and expertise necessary to defend against these threats. This legislation will help ensure that as cyber threats continue to evolve, our support systems for small businesses evolve, as well.”
H.R. 8880 would require a GAO study to analyze cyber risks, vulnerabilities, and current initiatives and identify shortcomings of current preventative and mitigating measures, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“Small businesses are the foundation of Main Streets across the country, and we cannot leave them behind as digital infrastructure becomes more unpredictable,” added Rep. Bresnahan. “By finding the gaps in current programs, this bill will give our small businesses better access to the tools, training, and resources they need to strengthen their defense against cyberattacks.”
The measure has been referred to the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee for consideration.