In a bipartisan effort to strengthen cybersecurity defenses for small water and wastewater utilities, Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Mike Rounds introduced the Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act. This bill aims to provide much-needed support to these systems, which are often overlooked when it comes to cybersecurity measures.
The legislation seeks to enhance the Department of Agriculture’s Circuit Rider Program, which offers technical assistance to rural water systems. The proposed updates include the development of protocols to improve cyber defenses for water systems and additional aid to enhance their protection measures. With only 20% of water and wastewater systems in the country currently having basic cyber protections, the need for such legislation is evident.
Sen. Rounds emphasized the importance of implementing cybersecurity safeguards in critical infrastructure, especially as cyberattacks from near-peer adversaries continue to pose a threat. The modernization and expansion of the Circuit Rider Program under this bill will provide essential cybersecurity-related technical assistance to rural water and wastewater systems, ensuring they are better equipped to defend against cyber threats.
The urgency of addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities in water systems was highlighted by the Biden administration’s warnings to U.S. governors about potential cyberattacks targeting these utilities. This concern was further underscored when the American Water Works Company, based in New Jersey, fell victim to a cyberattack, although thankfully, there was no disruption to water services.
Support for the Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act has been voiced by key industry players, including the National Rural Water Association, Rural Community Assistance Partnership, and Cyber Solarium 2.0. Rear Adm. (Ret.) Mark Montgomery, executive director of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, emphasized the critical nature of protecting water systems from cyber threats, which could have far-reaching implications on national security, economic productivity, and public health and safety.
By leveraging the existing circuit rider program, which has a proven track record of delivering security solutions, this legislation is poised to make a significant impact in enhancing the cybersecurity posture of small water and wastewater utilities. With the support of various stakeholders and bipartisan backing, the Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act represents a crucial step towards fortifying the cybersecurity resilience of these vital infrastructure components.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act reflects a proactive approach to addressing cybersecurity challenges faced by small water and wastewater utilities. By bolstering their defenses and providing necessary technical assistance, this bipartisan initiative aims to safeguard critical infrastructure from cyber threats, ultimately ensuring the continued delivery of safe and reliable water services to communities across the country.