Washington, D.C. - Congressman Randy Weber (R-TX) introduced the bipartisan Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act alongside Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), legislation to protect America’s pipelines by placing the Department of Energy as the lead agency on cybersecurity coordination.

Cyber threats to critical energy infrastructure are increasing in frequency and sophistication, putting the pipelines that transport energy across the country at risk. While pipeline cybersecurity responsibilities are currently spread across multiple federal agencies, the Department of Energy already serves as the Energy Sector Risk Management Agency and has demonstrated its ability to respond during major incidents, including the 2021 Colonial Pipeline cyberattack.

“Texas’ 14th Congressional District helps power America, and protecting our pipelines is critical to our national and energy security,” said Rep. Weber. “This bill puts the Department of Energy’s expertise in the lead to coordinate preparedness, response, and recovery efforts to protect our pipelines.” 

 
The Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act directs the Department of Energy to coordinate with federal, state, and industry partners to strengthen the security and resilience of pipeline infrastructure by:

• Improving federal coordination and information-sharing related to cyber and physical threats;
• Supporting preparedness, response, and recovery efforts following cybersecurity incidents;
• Developing voluntary cybersecurity tools, technologies, and pilot projects in partnership with industry;
• Strengthening workforce development and cybersecurity training for pipeline and LNG facilities;
• And preserving existing agency authorities and creating no new regulatory requirements.

"As our world becomes more digital and interconnected, strong cybersecurity is essential, especially when it comes to protecting our energy supplies,” said Rep. Dingell. “Cyber threats to our energy infrastructure are real, growing, and need action now. The Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act strengthens the Department of Energy’s role by ensuring its experts are fully engaged in federal coordination and working closely with industry to secure our pipelines. We must continue to act decisively to safeguard our critical infrastructure and our national security.”

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