State Wants Rules To Toughen Utilities' Cybersecurity

LANSING (AP) — Michigan regulators have directed their staff to develop rules designed to toughen utilities' defenses against cyberattacks.

Michigan Public Service Commission Chairwoman Sally Talberg says natural gas and electric providers face attempted intrusions into their computer system on an almost daily basis. She says federal and state governments need to work with utilities to create programs to deal with security issues.

The rules to be crafted will require utilities to annually give regulators an overview of their cybersecurity program, staffing numbers, a description of employee training and other information such as a summary of cybersecurity incidents.

The Public Service Commission issued the order earlier this week.