Bills of Congress May 19, 2025 by U.S. Congress

H.R.1223 - Accelerating Networking, Cyberinfrastructure, and Hardware for Oceanic Research Act; ANCHOR Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.1223, the ANCHOR Act, mandates the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to develop a plan for improving cybersecurity and telecommunications within the U.S. Academic Research Fleet. This plan must address the networking and cybersecurity needs of the fleet, considering scientific missions and alignment with cybersecurity standards. The Act also requires assessments of costs, timelines, and opportunities for shared solutions, as well as a spending plan for funding the necessary upgrades.

Following the plan's development, the Director must submit a report to Congress detailing the progress made in implementing the plan. The goal is to enhance the capabilities and security of research vessels, supporting scientific endeavors and data management.

The Act defines key terms such as "Director," "oceanographic research vessel," and "U.S. Academic Research Fleet" to ensure clarity and consistency in its application.

Expected Effects

The ANCHOR Act will lead to improved cybersecurity and telecommunications infrastructure for U.S. academic research vessels. This will enhance their ability to conduct scientific research and transmit data effectively and securely.

It will also likely result in increased costs for upgrading and maintaining these systems, requiring funding from various sources, including the NSF and non-federal vessel owners. The Act also promotes collaboration and standardization in cybersecurity and telecommunications across the research fleet.

Potential Benefits 4/5

- Enhanced cybersecurity for research vessels, protecting sensitive data and research infrastructure.
- Improved telecommunications capabilities, enabling better data transmission and collaboration.
- Support for scientific missions by providing necessary network access and bandwidth.
- Potential for cost savings through common solutions and consortial licensing agreements.
- Advancement of oceanographic research and education through improved technology.

Most Benefited Areas:

Economic Growth & Job Creation ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Business Prosperity & Innovation ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Education & Skill Development ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Potential Disadvantages

- Potential for increased costs associated with upgrades and maintenance.
- Possible delays in implementation due to funding constraints or logistical challenges.
- Risk of cybersecurity breaches despite improvements, requiring ongoing vigilance.
- Administrative burden on the National Science Foundation and other involved agencies.
- Dependence on external funding sources, such as non-Federal owners, which may be subject to fluctuations.

Constitutional Alignment 5/5

The ANCHOR Act aligns with the constitutional mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by supporting scientific research and technological advancement. Congress's authority to legislate in this area is derived from its power to regulate commerce and provide for the common defense, as scientific research can contribute to both economic growth and national security. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.

Article I, Section 8, Clause 8 grants Congress the power to promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries. While not directly related to patents or copyrights, the ANCHOR Act supports the broader goal of scientific advancement.

There are no apparent constitutional conflicts arising from this legislation.