S.1118 - Water Intelligence, Security, and Cyber Threat Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Water Intelligence, Security, and Cyber Threat Protection Act of 2025 (S.1118) aims to bolster the preparedness and resilience of drinking water and wastewater systems against threats. It directs the EPA to establish a program supporting community water systems and treatment works in participating in the Water Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Water ISAC). The Act authorizes $10 million annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to fund these initiatives.
This program focuses on enhancing cooperation and coordination between the EPA and Water ISAC. It also seeks to improve the tools and resources available for monitoring the water sector and preparing for malevolent acts and natural hazards.
The bill emphasizes cybersecurity and threat preparedness within the water sector, addressing potential vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase the security and resilience of water systems against cyber threats and natural disasters. It will provide resources and support for water systems to participate in information sharing and analysis, improving their ability to detect and respond to threats. The enhanced cooperation between the EPA and Water ISAC should lead to a more coordinated and effective response to incidents affecting the water sector.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security of drinking water and wastewater systems.
- Improved information sharing and coordination among water systems and government agencies.
- Increased preparedness for cyber threats and natural disasters.
- Access to resources and tools for monitoring and threat detection.
- Support for community water systems and treatment works to maintain or initiate membership in the Water Information Sharing and Analysis Center.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing the program, although the bill authorizes appropriations.
- Possible bureaucratic hurdles in coordinating between the EPA and Water ISAC.
- The effectiveness of the program will depend on the actual participation of water systems and the quality of information shared.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on information sharing and analysis rather than addressing broader infrastructure needs.
- The authorized funding may be insufficient to address all the security needs of the water sector.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect public health and safety by securing water infrastructure. Specifically, the preamble of the US Constitution states the goal to "insure domestic Tranquility" and "provide for the common defence", which can be interpreted to include protecting critical infrastructure like water systems from threats.
Furthermore, Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, and water systems often serve multiple states or rely on resources that cross state lines. This bill does not infringe on any specific constitutional rights or liberties. The establishment of a program and authorization of appropriations fall within the powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8.
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).