The American Water Works Association (AWWA) has come out in support of the collaborative cybersecurity legislation recently introduced in Congress. The bipartisan bill, known as the “Cybersecurity Collaborative Act,” aims to enhance information sharing and coordination between the federal government and water utilities to better protect against cyber threats.
AWWA, the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the safe and sustainable management of water resources, believes that this legislation is a crucial step in strengthening the cybersecurity defenses of the nation’s water infrastructure. With increasing cyber attacks targeting critical infrastructure such as water utilities, it is essential for the industry to have the necessary tools and resources to defend against these threats.
The Cybersecurity Collaborative Act seeks to establish a voluntary program for water utilities to participate in information sharing and collaboration with the federal government on cybersecurity issues. By fostering communication and cooperation between industry stakeholders and government agencies, the bill aims to improve the overall security posture of the water sector.
AWWA President, Rebecca West, emphasized the importance of unity in the fight against cyber threats, stating that “cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that requires partnership and collaboration across the board.” She praised the bipartisan effort to introduce the legislation, highlighting the need for a coordinated approach to cybersecurity that leverages the expertise of both the public and private sectors.
The bill also includes provisions to enhance the cybersecurity workforce through training and education programs, as well as to incentivize the adoption of best practices and standards for securing water infrastructure. By promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness and preparedness, the legislation aims to mitigate the risks posed by cyber attacks and safeguard the nation’s water supply.
In a statement of support for the Cybersecurity Collaborative Act, AWWA CEO David LaFrance underscored the critical role of the water sector in national security, emphasizing that “protecting our water systems from cyber threats is essential to ensuring the health and safety of our communities.” He expressed confidence that the proposed legislation would help bolster the resilience of water utilities against evolving cyber risks.
The introduction of the Cybersecurity Collaborative Act comes at a time of increasing concern over the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber attacks. Recent incidents, such as the ransomware attack on the Oldsmar water treatment plant in Florida, have underscored the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures within the water sector.
AWWA’s endorsement of the collaborative cybersecurity legislation reflects the industry’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and reliability of water services in the face of growing cyber threats. By supporting initiatives that promote information sharing and collaboration, AWWA aims to bolster the overall cybersecurity posture of water utilities and strengthen the resilience of the nation’s water infrastructure.
As the Cybersecurity Collaborative Act makes its way through the legislative process, AWWA will continue to advocate for the passage of this critical legislation and work diligently to ensure the cybersecurity preparedness of water utilities across the country. By uniting industry stakeholders and government agencies in a coordinated effort to address cyber threats, AWWA is taking proactive steps to protect the nation’s water supply and safeguard the well-being of communities nationwide.