H.R. 7625: Marine Transportation System Cybersecurity Budget and Evaluation Report Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Marine Transportation System Cybersecurity Budget and Evaluation Report Act of 2026, aims to enhance cybersecurity within the marine transportation system in the United States. It focuses on assessing the budget, resources, and capabilities of the Coast Guard as it operates as a Sector Risk Management Agency (SRMA) for this system, in light of growing cyber threats.

Key Components of the Bill

• Purpose: The bill mandates a review to evaluate whether the Coast Guard has sufficient funding and resources to effectively manage cybersecurity risks associated with the marine transportation system.
• Cybersecurity Threats: Recognizes the increasing risks posed by cyber threats to the marine transportation system, which is critical for the U.S. economy and national security.
• Coast Guard's Role: Establishes the Coast Guard as a key agency responsible for overseeing and managing cybersecurity within the marine transportation system under various regulatory frameworks.

Review Process

The bill stipulates that the Comptroller General of the United States must conduct a review within 270 days of the bill’s enactment. This review will include:

• Assessment of the adequacy of Coast Guard funding for cybersecurity personnel, training, and enforcement.
• Evaluation of Coast Guard personnel's ability to assess compliance with cybersecurity regulations among regulated entities.
• Examination of the guidance provided to industry stakeholders for cybersecurity compliance, comparing it to established best practices and statutory requirements.

Reporting Findings

Upon completion of the review, the Comptroller General is required to submit the findings and recommendations to multiple congressional committees, including both the Senate and House committees involved in transportation, appropriations, and homeland security. This ensures that the relevant legislative bodies are informed of the Coast Guard's cybersecurity funding and operational needs.

Importance of the Marine Transportation System

The marine transportation system is crucial to the U.S. economy, supporting approximately $2.1 trillion in economic activity, which represents a significant portion of the global trade value of the United States. Thus, enhancing its cybersecurity is seen as essential for maintaining economic stability and security.

Current Challenges

The bill highlights existing challenges such as:

• A lack of adequate funding and staffing in the Coast Guard to effectively manage cybersecurity risks.
• The necessity for increased resources to fulfill legislative mandates related to cybersecurity.
• The need for a more robust framework to ensure compliance among marine transportation stakeholders.

Definitions

• Marine Transportation System: This term refers to the navigable waterways, ports, terminals, intermodal connections, vessels, and associated infrastructure that facilitate the movement of goods and individuals by water.
• Sector Risk Management Agency (SRMA): Refers to agencies designated to oversee risk management in specific sectors, including the marine transportation system.

Relevant Companies

• CSX: A major transportation company involved in shipments via rail, which may be impacted by marine transportation cybersecurity regulations that affect the intermodal transport of goods.
• UNP: Union Pacific is another key player in intermodal transport that could be impacted by the requirements and regulations arising from enhanced MTS cybersecurity oversight.
• AAPL: While primarily a technology company, Apple may face supply chain disruptions related to maritime cybersecurity incidents that affect the transport of their products.