Proclamation 9357-Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month, 2015
Issued 2015-10-29 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama designated November 2015 as Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month to draw public attention to protecting America's essential systems and structures. This proclamation recognizes that the nation's infrastructure—including roadways, tunnels, power grids, energy systems, and cybersecurity networks—is central to both national security and the economy. The action itself is ceremonial, meaning it does not create new laws or impose legal requirements on anyone.
The proclamation affects all Americans by highlighting the importance of infrastructure they rely on daily, from physical structures to digital networks. It acknowledges that much of this infrastructure is owned by private companies, not the government, and emphasizes the administration's commitment to partnering with private industry, state governments, and local governments to address security challenges. The proclamation also mentions existing federal efforts like the National Infrastructure Protection Plan and the Build America Investment Initiative.
This matters because it brings national focus to infrastructure security at a time when, according to the proclamation, the country is underinvesting in infrastructure by hundreds of billions of dollars annually. The proclamation calls attention to threats ranging from general security concerns to climate change impacts, while urging Americans to recognize both the value of existing infrastructure and the ongoing challenges of protecting it.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9357-Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to critical infrastructure security and resilience. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9357—Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month, 2015 October 29, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our Nation's critical infrastructure is central to our security and essential to our economy. Technology, energy, and information systems play a pivotal role in our lives today, and people continue to rely on the physical structures that surround us. From roadways and tunnels, to power grids and energy systems, to cybersecurity networks and other digital landscapes, it is crucial that we stay prepared to confront any threats to America's infrastructure. During Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month, we rededicate ourselves to safeguarding our infrastructure by staying attentive, alert, and ready to respond to any threats toward our homeland and our assets. Ensuring our country has a secure and stable infrastructure is essential to our national security efforts. Our systems and networks extend beyond the scope of government. Many are owned by private industry, and my Administration is committed to partnering with private entities, as well as State and local governments, to secure our critical infrastructure. Earlier this year, we convened some of Ameri