Dayton Seeks Boost in Minnesota’s Cybersecurity Funding

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - The tech experts charged with protecting Minnesota's vast state government computer network from hackers are seeking more money to shore up their cyber defenses.

Gov. Mark Dayton has asked the Legislature for more than $45 million, but the request is getting a skeptical reaction from key Republicans. Reports say the pitch has failed to win over House State Government Finance Committee Chair Sarah Anderson, who says the state's major computing projects of late give her pause, especially the MNsure health insurance exchange.

Chief information security officer Christopher Buse says Minnesota needs to step up its defenses to protect sensitive information, including tax returns, health records and licensing databases.

About $435,000 of the state's current budget is set aside next year specifically for cybersecurity.