DHS announces additional $374.9 million in funding to boost State, Local Cybersecurity

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The Department of Homeland Security has announced the availability of $374.9 million in grant funding for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). State and local governments face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats to their critical infrastructure and public safety. Now in its second year, the SLCGP is a first-of-its-kind cybersecurity grant program specifically for state, local, and territorial (SLT) governments nationwide to help them strengthen their cyber resilience. Established by the State and Local Cybersecurity Improvement Act, and part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the SLCGP provides $1 billion in funding over four years to support SLT governments as they develop capabilities to detect, protect against, and respond to cyber threats. This year’s funding allotment represents a significant increase from the $185 million allotted in FY22, demonstrating the Administration and Congress’s commitment to help improve the cybersecurity of communities across the nation.

“In today’s threat environment, any locality is vulnerable to a devastating cyber attack targeted at a hospital, school, water, or other system,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “The Department of Homeland Security is helping to ensure that every community, regardless of size, funding, or resources, can meet these threats and keep their residents and their critical infrastructure safe and secure. These cybersecurity grants will help state, local, and territorial governments do just that, and I strongly urge communities nationwide to submit an application.”

SLCGP is jointly administered by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). CISA provides expertise and guidance on cybersecurity issues while FEMA manages the grant award and allocation process. Award recipients may use the funding for a wide range of cybersecurity improvements and capabilities, including cybersecurity planning and exercising, hiring cyber personnel, and improving the daily services that citizens rely on.

“State and local governments are facing increasingly sophisticated cyber threats to their critical infrastructure and public safety,” said CISA Director Jen Easterly. “As the Nation’s Cyber Defense Agency, CISA is pleased to make available yet another tool that will help strengthen cyber defenses for communities across the nation and bolster our collective cybersecurity.”

“Building resilience requires more than mitigating against natural hazards,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “As our threat landscape continues to evolve, the funding provided through the state, local, and territorial cybersecurity grant program will increase capability to help communities better prepare and reduce cyber risks.”

State and local governments have until October 6 to apply for this FY23 grant opportunity. For more information and helpful resources on the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, visit CISA’s webpage: cisa.gov/cybergrants.

Kirk MacDowell to Receive Prestigious Moody Award for Decades of Leadership in Electronic Security Industry

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Kirk MacDowell founder and CEO of MacGuard Security Advisors, Inc. has been honored with the prestigious William N. Moody Award. The award will be presented at the SIAC awards presentation and reception at 5:00 pm on June 6 at the Electronic Security EXPO in Louisville, Kentucky. Created in 2004 by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), the Moody Award is given annually to an individual who demonstrates a passion for advancing positive alarm management and best industry practices.

“Kirk helped provide great energy, imagination and leadership when he was named SIAC chairman,†said Stan Martin, SIAC executive director.  “But his role in SIAC is only the latest in a long list of contributions he has made to the industry while at the same time building a successful 43-year career in law enforcement and the private sector.

Call for participation in TMA-VMS-01 video procedural standard committee.“Kirk has a unique and diverse background that has been invaluable to helping SIAC achieve its mission of working with law enforcement to promote best practices in alarm management,†said Martin.  “He has owned a full-service security, armed guard response and central station company in Los Angeles and has led the 43rd largest alarm company in the US. In security manufacturing, he held varying roles of increasing responsibility at General Electric and United Technologies. In the software field, Kirk was VP of Platform Sales for alarm cloud innovator Alarm.com. Kirk also served 29 years with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department as a full-time Deputy and ultimately retired as a Reserve Lieutenant. He is currently president of MacGuard Security Advisors Inc., which provides business strategies, strategic growth initiatives, builder development services, acquisition analysis, SWOT evaluation, and customer satisfaction surveys.â€

MacDowell has also served the electronic security industry as Past Chairman, Alarm Industry Research and Education Foundation (AIREF), Chairman, Security Industry Alarm Collation (SIAC), Chairman, Leadership Identification and Nomination Committee of ESA (LINC), former board member, Security Industry Association (SIA), former board member, The Monitoring Association (TMA), and Past President, Los Angeles County Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (LABFAA).

“It has been a privilege throughout my career to work with other professionals in our industry like Bill Moody who recognized that by working together we could best serve and protect our communities,†said MacDowell. “I would urge the next generation of leaders in our industry to make this same commitment to its mission of enhancing public safety.â€

About the William N. Moody Award    

The William N. Moody Award was established in 2004 by the SIAC Board of Directors to recognize those who embody Bill’s dedication to alarm management issues. The award honors individuals who reflect attributes that include integrity, fairness and perseverance in the face of adversity. 

About SIAC

SIAC represents one voice for the electronic security industry on alarm management issues –communicating solutions and enhancing relationships with law enforcement.  SIAC is comprised of four major North American security associations–Canadian Security Association (CANASA), Security Industry Association (SIA), Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA). For more information, go to www.SIACinc.org,  www.siacinc.wordpress.com, or follow us on www.twitter.com/siacinc.

MacDowell to Receive Prestigious Moody Award for Decades of Leadership in Electronic Security Industry

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New York Governor signs Fair Repair Act, with amendments to protect most alarm devices and services

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At year end, New York Governor Hochul signed the Fair Repair Act into law, making it easier for consumers to repair their own electronic devices.  Fortunately, in response to concerns raised by AICC and members of the alarm industry, the Governor simultaneously enacted amendments to the Act to help prevent the compromise of alarm systems in a way that would endanger customers and the public.

The original version of the Act (S. 4104-A) would have required manufacturers of “digital electronic equipment”, including alarm systems, to make product manuals, repair tools, lockout codes, passwords, system design schematics and other information available to customers and third-party contractors, so that they can attempt repairs on their own.  Both houses of the New York legislature passed the bill in June 2022.  Before the bill was forwarded to the Governor for signing, AICC and members of the alarm industry weighed in with a request asking for chapter amendments to the Act, so as to exempt central station alarm operations from the disclosure requirements in the bill.  AICC pointed out that if access codes, passwords, or alarm system schematics are provided to customers or their contractors, and then either hacked or innocently made public (e.g., as part of a You Tube self-help video), it could allow bad actors to disable alarm systems, endangering tens or hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers.

The Governor’s amendment to the Fair Repair Act was responsive to alarm industry concerns in multiple ways:

  • Creation of a specific exemption for “home” security devices and alarm systems;
  • Creation of a specific exemption for equipment sold under a specific business-to-government or business-to-business contract, which is not otherwise offered for sale directly by a retail seller;
  • Deletion of the requirement for any alarm manufacturer or provider to disclose security codes and passwords for alarm equipment under any circumstance;
  • Creation of an exemption for “medical devices” which should be broad enough to cover many security/medical monitoring pendants (to the extent that these devices are not already protected by the “home” alarm exemption discussed above);
  • Grandfathering of pre-July 1, 2023 equipment, narrowing the scope of the new disclosure requirements and giving the alarm industry time to prepare for the new law (to the extent any devices don’t qualify for one of the above exemptions).
  • Creation of an exemption for certain anti-theft security measures;
  • Allowing the provision of replacement part assemblies rather than individual components.
  • Protecting alarm and other manufacturers from having to disclose trade secrets or intellectual property.

Provided courtesy of AICC.

TMA Honors Fiore’s Lifetime Contribution with Everlasting Scholarship

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The Monitoring Association’s (TMA) President Morgan Hertel announced the establishment of the Louis T. Fiore Electronic Communications Scholarship on Mon., Oct. 31st during the TMA General Business Meeting at the 2022 Annual Meeting on Marco Island, FL. The scholarship honors Mr. Fiore’s enduring contribution to the alarm industry and the Alarm Industry Communications Committee (AICC) and is intended to promote careers in electronic communications.

Call for participation in TMA-VMS-01 video procedural standard committee.“How do you recognize someone who’s given his heart and soul for more than 30 years to an organization?†asked President Hertel when introducing the new scholarship. “Lou has served the alarm industry in many capacities. We wanted to honor his immeasurable contributions in an everlasting manner to make certain he and his work is never forgotten.†The room rose with a standing ovation as Fiore approached the stage to accept a small token of recognition from President Hertel.

“I am honored. As chair of the AICC for 30 years, I worked hard to make certain the Committee and its members thrived. The work was very close to my heart. Thank you very much. This is incredible,†stated Fiore in his acceptance comments.

The scholarship is open to anyone studying electrical engineering, specifically electronic communications, or software development related to electronic communications, regardless of financial need. Students at any nationally accredited educational institution, including vocational schools, two-year colleges, or other institutions of higher learning are eligible.

For more information on this scholarship, including donating, go to https://tma.us/louis-t-fiore-electronic-communications-scholarship/

Pictured (l to r): Bill Signer, Carmen Group; Ret. U.S. Rep. Peter T. King [R-NY]; and Louis T. Fiore

New York Governor Signs Fair Repair Act, with Amendments to Protect Most Alarm Devices and Services

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At year end, New York Governor Hochul signed the Fair Repair Act into law, making it easier for consumers to repair their own electronic devices.  Fortunately, in response to concerns raised by AICC and members of the alarm industry, the Governor simultaneously enacted amendments to the Act to help prevent the compromise of alarm systems in a way that would endanger customers and the public.

The original version of the Act (S. 4104-A) would have required manufacturers of “digital electronic equipment”, including alarm systems, to make product manuals, repair tools, lockout codes, passwords, system design schematics and other information available to customers and third-party contractors, so that they can attempt repairs on their own.  Both houses of the New York legislature passed the bill in June 2022.  Before the bill was forwarded to the Governor for signing, AICC and some of its members weighed in with a request asking for “chapter amendments” to, so as to exempt central station alarm operations from the disclosure requirements in the bill.  AICC pointed out that if access codes, passwords, or alarm system schematics are provided to customers or their contractors, and then either hacked or innocently made public (e.g., as part of a You Tube self-help video), it could allow bad actors to disable alarm systems, endangering tens or hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers.

The Governor’s amendment to the Fair Repair Act was responsive to alarm industry concerns in multiple ways:

  • Creation of a specific exemption for “home” security devices and alarm systems;
  • Creation of a specific exemption for equipment sold under a specific business-to-government or business-to-business contract, which is not otherwise offered for sale directly by a retail seller;
  • Deletion of the requirement for any alarm manufacturer or provider to disclose security codes and passwords for alarm equipment;
  • Creation of an exemption for “medical devices” which should be broad enough to cover many security/medical monitoring pendants (to the extent that these devices are not already protected by the “home” alarm exemption discussed above;
  • Grandfathering of pre-July 1, 2023 equipment, narrowing the scope of the new disclosure requirements and giving the alarm industry time to prepare for the new law (to the extent any devices don’t qualify for one of the above exemptions).
  • Creation of an exemption for certain anti-theft security measures;
  • Allowing the provision of replacement part assemblies rather than individual components.
  • Protecting alarm and other manufacturers from having to disclose trade secrets or intellectual property.

AICC is seeking clarification of some of the terms in the new law, and expects more guidance in the coming weeks.  The alarm industry should move expeditiously to urge the adoption of similar exemptions and measures in other pending state and federal Right to Repair legislation.

Celebrate National Technician’s Day, Jan. 23rd

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TMA is pleased to support the first-ever #NationalSecurityTechnicianDay this Monday, January 23rd. Established by FAST, with the support of SIA and ESA, National Security Technician Day  recognizes the contributions technicians make to our industry and our communities.

Technicians are everyday heroes whose work ensures that security and safety technologies are installed and supported so that people and property are protected. It’s not an easy job: They’re wizards who have to know the newest technologies and equally know the labor skills required for complex installations, and how to work with clients in demanding environments.

Join in the celebration and Make a Plan to Celebrate Your Security Technicians:

Make the day special for your security technicians or those of your partners. Can’t celebrate on Monday? Pick another day for your internal celebration and simply announce your plans this Monday.

Here are some ideas to show your appreciation:

  • Host a luncheon, cookout, or other event for your team to celebrate technicians support security, fire and other safety systems.
  • Surprise your techs with swag. Think cool gear, tools and apparel.
  • Put your money where your heart is: Gift cards or spot bonuses go a long way to show appreciation for techs.
  • Reward them with some time off or a short day!
  • Invest in their training/professional development.
  • Recognize your techs or techs you know. Even better, encourage your clients and partners to recognize some of their favorite techs; it’s hard to beat client appreciation

 

SIAC Releases New Model Alarm Ordinance STATs and Case Study

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SIAC recently released the latest STATs on its Model Alarm Ordinance. This slide captures the effectiveness of the organization’s efforts working in partnership with law enforcement.

Download the case study.

Learn more about SIAC.

Hire a Veteran Day

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According to SHRM, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, “In 2020, 18.5 million men and women were veterans, accounting for about 7 percent of the civilian, noninstitutionalized population ages 18 and older. ZipRecruiter and the Call of Duty Endowment1 reports that veterans are 15.6 percent more likely than non-veterans job seekers to be underemployed.

Veterans can help raise a company’s workforce to the next level in many areas, including: Leadership and teamwork. Military service creates individuals who work to earn the respect of their peers and understand how to bring people together to pursue strategic, common goals. Problem-solving and decision-making.

According to Hire a Veteran Day Founder Dan Caporale, “The best way to honor a veteran is to hire one.”

An Orion Talent’s 2018 Veteran Hiring Survey found that candidates with military experience are more likely to be hired, more likely to accept a job offer, and more likely to stay at the company for a longer period of time than those without a military background.

Learn more about how to build a business case for hiring veterans and how to implement a veteran’s hiring initiative on the SHRM website at https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/tools-and-samples/toolkits/pages/militaryreadyemployer.aspx.

ESA Presents its Weinstock Person of the Year Award to Firestone

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Steve Firestone has had a distinguished professional career. But what may define Firestone — the individual — most are the personal connections forged by the spirit of community and association for the betterment of all. Firestone’s litany of association work and volunteerism is long and illustrious. It is certainly befitting the very essence of the Morris F. Weinstock Person of the Year, an honor recognizing the lifetime achievement and service to the industry of a dedicated individual.

In a recent conversation, Firestone addressed how he found a work-life balance with volunteering; the personal rewards one gains through association work; and the importance of “staying in school.” He also recalls in detail how countless industry brethren lifted him and his family during one of their darkest moments.

Read the full interview.