S.1875 - Streamlining Federal Cybersecurity Regulations Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Streamlining Federal Cybersecurity Regulations Act of 2025 aims to establish an interagency committee, the Harmonization Committee, to harmonize cybersecurity regulations across various federal agencies. This committee will develop a regulatory framework to create a common set of baseline cybersecurity requirements and sector-specific requirements. The act also includes a pilot program to test the implementation of the regulatory framework and mandates consultation with Sector Risk Management Agencies and industry stakeholders.
The goal is to reduce inconsistencies and redundancies in cybersecurity regulations, promoting reciprocity and efficiency. The National Cyber Director will chair the committee, and the Office of Management and Budget will issue guidance to federal agencies to ensure consistency with the developed framework.
The Act mandates reports to Congress on the committee's activities, the application of the regulatory framework, and the pilot program's outcomes.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to a more standardized and streamlined approach to federal cybersecurity regulations. This could reduce the burden on regulated entities that must comply with multiple overlapping regulations. The pilot program will provide insights into the practical application of the framework, potentially leading to adjustments and improvements before broader implementation.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced compliance costs for businesses by streamlining cybersecurity regulations.
- Enhanced cybersecurity posture through consistent and updated minimum requirements.
- Improved coordination among federal agencies regarding cybersecurity.
- Increased reciprocity, allowing assessments from one agency to be recognized by others.
- Greater clarity and predictability for regulated entities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for delays in regulatory updates due to the consultation process.
- Risk that baseline requirements may not adequately address sector-specific risks.
- Possible resistance from agencies reluctant to cede regulatory authority.
- Increased bureaucracy through the creation of a new interagency committee.
- The voluntary nature of the pilot program may limit its effectiveness if key agencies decline to participate.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and provide for the common defense. By streamlining cybersecurity regulations, the Act aims to enhance national security and protect interstate commerce from cyber threats. The establishment of an interagency committee and the development of a regulatory framework fall within Congress's authority to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.
The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. The consultation requirements and public comment periods ensure due process and transparency in the regulatory process.
However, the Act's delegation of authority to the Harmonization Committee and the Office of Management and Budget raises questions about the non-delegation doctrine, which requires Congress to provide clear standards for agencies to follow when exercising delegated authority. While the Act provides some guidance, its constitutionality may depend on the specificity of the regulatory framework developed by the committee.
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).