H.R. 2109 - Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act

Summary

The Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on March 14, 2025. The main purpose of the bill is to improve the cybersecurity of rural water systems across the United States.

Key Provisions

1. Cybersecurity Grant Program: The bill would establish a new grant program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide funding to rural water systems for cybersecurity improvements and upgrades. Eligible systems could receive up to $500,000 per grant.

2. Technical Assistance: The bill directs the USDA to provide technical assistance to help rural water systems assess their cybersecurity risks and implement appropriate security measures.

3. Vulnerability Assessments: The bill requires the USDA to conduct nationwide vulnerability assessments of rural water systems and develop recommendations to address any identified security gaps.

4. Cybersecurity Standards: The bill would direct the USDA, in coordination with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), to develop cybersecurity standards and best practices specifically for rural water systems.

Affected Parties

• Rural Water Systems: The primary focus of the bill is to support the cybersecurity needs of water systems serving rural and small communities across the United States.

• Federal Agencies: The USDA and CISA would play key roles in administering the grant program, providing technical assistance, and developing cybersecurity standards under this legislation.

Timeline and Procedure

The bill has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development for further consideration. If passed by the House and Senate, and signed into law by the President, the provisions of the Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act would take effect 180 days after enactment.