Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act

Bill 119 s 1018, also known as the "Cybersecurity Circuit Rider Program Act," aims to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to create a cybersecurity circuit rider program. This program would offer cybersecurity-related technical support to specific entities that manage rural water or wastewater systems.

The bill recognizes the increasing importance of cybersecurity in protecting critical infrastructure, such as water and wastewater systems, from cyber threats. By establishing a cybersecurity circuit rider program, the legislation seeks to ensure that rural communities have access to the necessary resources and expertise to safeguard their systems against potential cyber attacks.

Under this program, cybersecurity experts, known as circuit riders, would be deployed to provide technical assistance and guidance to eligible entities operating rural water or wastewater systems. These experts would offer support in implementing cybersecurity best practices, conducting risk assessments, and developing incident response plans to enhance the overall cybersecurity posture of these systems. Overall, Bill 119 s 1018 aims to address the growing cybersecurity challenges faced by rural water and wastewater systems by establishing a dedicated program to provide much-needed technical assistance and support in enhancing their cybersecurity defenses.