H.R. 3278: Protecting Critical Infrastructure Act

This bill, known as the Protecting Critical Infrastructure Act, proposes several changes to existing laws regarding computer fraud and related activities that affect critical infrastructure in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of its main elements:

1. Increased Penalties for Cyber Crimes

The bill intends to amend section 1030 of title 18 of the United States Code to enhance the penalties for individuals found guilty of computer fraud offenses that involve critical infrastructure. Specifically:

• For offenses that affect critical infrastructure, the bill introduces a minimum sentence of 30 years, which could extend to life imprisonment.

This aims to impose stricter consequences for those who unlawfully access systems that are essential to national security and public safety.

2. Sanctions Against Foreign Individuals

The bill requires the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals who are found to knowingly access critical infrastructure with the intention of harming:

• The national security or defense of the United States.
• The safety and security of U.S. citizens or lawful residents.

The sanctions include:

• Asset blocking, which allows the President to block any transactions related to properties of the individual that are in the U.S.
• Limiting that individual's ability to enter the United States by revoking visas and making them inadmissible.

3. Penalties for Violating Sanctions

Individuals that violate, attempt to violate, or conspire to violate the sanctions imposed will face additional penalties as outlined in existing international economic powers laws.

4. Regulatory Authority and Implementation

The bill grants the President the authority to establish necessary regulations for implementing these measures within 90 days of enactment. There are provisions for notifying Congress before publishing these regulations.

5. Definitions and Scope

The bill defines key terms such as "critical infrastructure," "foreign person," and "United States person," ensuring clarity on which individuals and assets are covered under this legislation. Critical infrastructure includes systems that are crucial for national security, public health, and safety.

Relevant Companies

• SCIS (Scientific Industries, Inc.) - As a company potentially involved in technological infrastructure, changes to regulations regarding cybersecurity could alter their operations or liability.
• CSCO (Cisco Systems, Inc.) - Known for providing network security solutions, Cisco could experience increased demand or regulatory scrutiny as companies strengthen defenses against cyber threats impacting critical infrastructure.