H.R.1495 - Digital Economy Cybersecurity Advisory Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1495, the Digital Economy Cybersecurity Advisory Act of 2025, aims to enhance cybersecurity within the digital economy by establishing a Digital Economy and Cybersecurity Board of Advisors within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The board will advise the Assistant Secretary of Commerce on technical best practices and policies related to cybersecurity. This includes securing information and communications networks and promoting secure supply chains.
The bill outlines the composition of the board, requiring a balanced representation of cybersecurity experts from both the public and private sectors, as well as individuals involved in operating and maintaining networks and producing related equipment and software. The board is set to terminate four years after the enactment of the bill.
The bill focuses on bolstering cybersecurity infrastructure and expertise within the NTIA to address growing threats to the digital economy.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be the creation of a formal advisory board dedicated to cybersecurity within the NTIA. This board will provide recommendations on best practices and policies, potentially leading to improved cybersecurity standards and practices across various sectors.
Ultimately, the goal is to foster a more secure and resilient digital economy, protecting both public and private networks from cyber threats.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced cybersecurity for information and communications networks.
- Promotion of secure supply chains within the digital economy.
- Development of cybersecurity policies that foster innovation.
- Improved collaboration between public and private sectors on cybersecurity issues.
- Increased resilience to cybersecurity incidents.
Potential Disadvantages
- The board's recommendations are non-binding, potentially limiting its impact.
- The board's termination after four years may disrupt long-term cybersecurity strategies.
- The act may increase bureaucracy within the NTIA.
- The cost of implementing the board's recommendations is not specified, potentially burdening taxpayers.
- The focus on cybersecurity may inadvertently create barriers to innovation and commercialization.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the several states. Cybersecurity, particularly in the digital economy, has significant interstate implications, justifying federal regulation.
Furthermore, the establishment of an advisory board within the NTIA falls under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18), allowing Congress to enact laws necessary for carrying out its enumerated powers. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
However, the broad delegation of authority to the Assistant Secretary of Commerce could raise concerns about the separation of powers, although this is mitigated by the specific guidelines provided in the bill.
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).