- October 4, 2023
- Brian Fischer
- 543 Views
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- Blog, DFARS
Demystifying the CMMC Rulemaking Journey: Navigating the Next Level
As the digital realm continues to expand, so do the threats that endanger our nation’s critical infrastructure and sensitive data. In response to this growing challenge, the Department of Defense (DoD) introduced the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fortifying the cybersecurity posture of defense contractors and safeguarding the integrity of defense-related information.
However, as with any transformative endeavor, the journey towards implementing and complying with the CMMC framework is fraught with complexities and uncertainties. As we seek to bolster national security, we find ourselves embarking on a challenging path marked by intricate rulemaking procedures, regulatory intricacies, and a myriad of compliance hurdles. Security Compliance Associates can help organizations across various industry verticals navigate the CMMC system after the new rulemaking is implemented.
Understanding CMMC Rulemaking in Cybersecurity
Establish the specific rules, standards, and requirements that organizations must adhere to in order to enhance their cybersecurity posture. It’s the process through which these agencies transform high-level policy objectives, such as protecting critical infrastructure or safeguarding sensitive data, into concrete, actionable directives. These rules serve as the cornerstone of cybersecurity compliance, providing a clear roadmap for organizations to follow in order to meet the established security standards.
Rulemaking is of paramount importance in ensuring compliance and enforcement within the realm of cybersecurity. Without well-defined rules and standards, achieving a consistent and robust cybersecurity posture would be akin to navigating uncharted waters. The rules established through the rulemaking process set clear expectations for organizations, making it possible to measure their adherence to cybersecurity best practices objectively. Moreover, rulemaking empowers regulatory agencies with the necessary authority to enforce compliance. This is crucial for holding organizations accountable and, in turn, deterring cybersecurity breaches and incidents that can have far-reaching consequences for national security and the private sector.
The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) plays a pivotal role in shaping the rulemaking process within the United States. Enacted in 1946, the APA provides a structured framework for federal agencies to follow when engaging in rulemaking activities. It mandates transparency, public participation, and fairness throughout the rulemaking process. Under the APA, agencies are required to publish proposed rules, solicit public comments, and consider feedback from stakeholders before finalizing regulations. This ensures that rulemaking decisions are well-informed and take into account a diverse range of perspectives, ultimately resulting in more effective and equitable cybersecurity regulations.
In addition to the APA, various agencies and organizations have developed specific rulemaking guidelines tailored to cybersecurity. These guidelines help streamline the rulemaking process in the context of cybersecurity frameworks, emphasizing the unique challenges and considerations that arise in this domain. By adhering to such guidelines, regulatory bodies can craft rules that are not only effective but also agile, allowing them to adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats and technology. Together, the APA and cybersecurity-specific rulemaking guidelines form the backbone of rulemaking efforts aimed at bolstering our collective defenses against cyberattacks.
Developing the CMMC Framework
The development of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework marked a significant milestone in the United States’ efforts to fortify its cybersecurity defenses, particularly within the defense industrial base (DIB). The genesis of the CMMC framework can be traced back to the growing realization that the defense sector was becoming an attractive target for cyber adversaries, and a more structured approach to cybersecurity was needed. To address this challenge, the Department of Defense (DoD) took the lead in crafting the CMMC framework, working in collaboration with various stakeholders, including industry experts, government agencies, and cybersecurity professionals.
The development process was informed by a combination of existing cybersecurity standards, best practices, and lessons learned from previous breaches. It aimed to strike a balance between safeguarding sensitive defense information and ensuring that defense contractors, both large and small, could comply with the framework without undue burdens. This approach involved multiple rounds of public feedback and industry engagement, underlining the commitment to transparency and inclusivity.
The result was a tiered certification model that assessed an organization’s cybersecurity maturity level and provided a clear roadmap for enhancing cybersecurity practices. Key sources for understanding the development of the CMMC framework include official DoD publications and statements, such as the DoD’s CMMC website and associated documents, which provide insights into the framework’s evolution and objectives. The site is constantly evolving to present updates, so it’s a good page to bookmark and check in occasionally!
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CMMC Rulemaking and Public Engagement & Feedback
Rulemaking begins with what is commonly known as the “interim rule.” It is an initial version of the regulatory framework that is proposed and published by the relevant regulatory agency, in this case, the Department of Defense (DoD), responsible for the CMMC framework. The purpose of the interim rule is to introduce and test the proposed regulations, gather public input and feedback, and make necessary adjustments before finalization.
Public comments play a crucial role in shaping the CMMC rulemaking process by providing valuable feedback, diverse perspectives, and expert insights that help refine and improve the framework. The DoD follows a transparent and inclusive approach to rulemaking, which includes soliciting public comments and actively engaging with stakeholders.
Public comments ensure transparency and accountability in the rulemaking process. When the DoD proposes changes or updates to the CMMC framework, it publishes these proposals in the Federal Register, providing an opportunity for the public, including industry stakeholders, cybersecurity experts, and the general public, to review and provide feedback. This openness holds the DoD accountable for its rulemaking decisions and helps build trust in the process.
Public comments bring a wide range of perspectives to the table. Different organizations, experts, and individuals from various sectors and backgrounds can weigh in on the proposed changes. This diversity of viewpoints helps identify potential challenges, unintended consequences, or overlooked considerations in the rulemaking process. Public comments often lead to refinements and improvements in the CMMC framework. When stakeholders point out flaws, ambiguities, or areas where the framework could be strengthened, the DoD can make adjustments to address these concerns. This iterative process ensures that the final regulations are more effective and practical.
In some cases, public comments may highlight legal or procedural issues with the proposed rules. Addressing these concerns ensures that the CMMC framework complies with relevant laws and regulations and follows the proper rulemaking procedures, reducing the risk of legal challenges in the future. Additionally, when stakeholders feel heard and see their feedback incorporated into the final framework, they are more likely to buy into and comply with the regulations.
Rule Finalization and Implementation
Once regulatory agencies have gathered public comments, considered expert opinions, and conducted the necessary assessments, they move towards the final rule. The final rule reflects the culmination of the rulemaking process, taking into account the feedback received and ensuring that the regulations are clear, effective, and compliant with legal requirements. Once the final rule is determined, it is published in the Federal Register, and the effective date of enforcement is specified.
During this phase, agencies must also ensure that the rules align with the agency’s mission, comply with legal requirements, and adhere to established procedures. The finalization process may include additional rounds of review and analysis to address any outstanding concerns and refine the regulations. Once the rules are finalized and published, they become legally binding and set the standard for compliance within the regulated industry or sector.
After the rules are finalized, the implementation phase begins, which is a critical step in bringing the regulatory framework to life. Implementation involves various activities and processes to put the rules into practice. This typically includes providing guidance and resources to regulated entities to help them understand and comply with the new regulations. Once the final rule is determined, it is published in the Federal Register, and the effective date of enforcement is specified.
Regulatory agencies may develop compliance assistance materials, conduct training sessions, and establish communication channels to answer questions and provide clarifications. In some cases, agencies may also conduct pilot programs or phased rollouts to assess the practicality and effectiveness of the rules. Implementation efforts are aimed at ensuring that regulated organizations can smoothly transition to compliance and integrate the new regulations into their operations.
SCA is completely up to date when it comes to CMMC rule changes. Our team of experts constantly review when new rules are implemented and ensure our clients receive the most relevant information as soon as possible. The CISO and Deputy CIO of the DoD has been quoted stating that CMMC language will start to appear in contracts and solicitation in late Q3 2024. This is a sign that an interim or final rule could be published soon. If you are pursuing CMMC, our team of cybersecurity analysts can help ensure you are on the path for a successful CMMC audit!