Tech Bills of the Week: Measures seek to boost cyber posture of utilities

The proposed legislation would expand the Energy Department’s role in hardening U.S. energy infrastructure to boost cybersecurity and physical protections for pipelines, electric utilities and local distribution systems.

Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act

The bill, led by Rep. Randy Weber, R-Texas, would direct the Energy Department to stand up a program aimed at strengthening the physical security and cybersecurity of U.S. pipelines and liquefied natural gas facilities. Energy would be responsible for improving information sharing and coordination across the sector to bolster the resilience and survivability of natural gas and hazardous liquid infrastructure.

Under the proposal, Energy would also take a lead role in coordinating federal, state and industry response and recovery efforts following physical or cyber incidents. The measure calls for the development of voluntary cybersecurity tools and technologies, pilot security demonstration projects and workforce training curricula.

Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa ...