H.R.2344 - Water Intelligence, Security, and Cyber Threat Protection Act; Water ISAC Threat Protection Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2344, the Water Intelligence, Security, and Cyber Threat Protection Act, aims to enhance the preparedness and resilience of drinking water and wastewater systems against threats. It establishes a program under the EPA to support participation in the Water Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Water ISAC). The bill authorizes appropriations of $10 million for each of fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to carry out these objectives.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase the security and cyber threat protection of water systems by promoting information sharing and coordination. This will be achieved through the Water ISAC and EPA collaboration. The program intends to improve the ability of community water systems and treatment works to identify, protect against, detect, respond to, and recover from malevolent acts and natural hazards.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security of water systems against cyber and physical threats.
- Improved coordination and information sharing among water utilities and the EPA.
- Increased preparedness and resilience of community water systems and treatment works.
- Potential for reduced risk of water contamination or service disruption.
- Support for smaller water systems to participate in threat intelligence networks.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to water systems for membership and compliance.
- Possible expansion of federal oversight and regulation of local water utilities.
- Risk of information overload or ineffective threat analysis from increased data sharing.
- Limited scope focusing primarily on information sharing, potentially neglecting other critical infrastructure needs.
- Reliance on the Water ISAC's effectiveness, which may vary.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting the safety and security of the nation's water supply. Congress has the power to regulate activities that substantially affect interstate commerce, which includes ensuring the safety and security of water systems. The bill's focus on information sharing and support for local entities respects the principles of federalism.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).