H.R.1604 - Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1604, the Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act of 2025, aims to enhance the cybersecurity and resilience of the agriculture and food critical infrastructure sector. The bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct biennial risk assessments of cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities. It also mandates an annual cross-sector simulation exercise to address food-related emergencies and disruptions.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to improved cybersecurity practices within the agriculture and food sector. This includes better preparedness for and response to cyberattacks. The simulation exercises will help identify vulnerabilities and improve coordination among various stakeholders.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced food security through better protection against cyber threats.
- Improved coordination and information sharing among government agencies and the private sector.
- Identification and mitigation of vulnerabilities in the food supply chain.
- Development of best practices for cybersecurity in the agriculture and food sector.
- Increased resilience of the agriculture and food sector to disruptions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing new cybersecurity measures.
- Possible regulatory burdens on farmers and food producers.
- Risk of overregulation that could stifle innovation.
- The simulation exercises may divert resources from other critical areas.
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative overhead.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to ensure the safety and security of the nation's food supply. The necessary and proper clause could also be invoked to justify the specific measures outlined in the bill, as they are necessary for carrying out the enumerated power of providing for the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).