S.754 - Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act of 2025 aims to enhance the cybersecurity and resilience of the agriculture and food critical infrastructure sector. It directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct biennial risk assessments of cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities. The act also mandates annual cross-sector simulation exercises to address food-related emergencies and disruptions.
The bill requires coordination with various federal agencies and private sector entities. It also calls for reports to be submitted to Congress detailing the findings and recommendations from these assessments and exercises.
Finally, the Act authorizes appropriations of $1,000,000 annually from 2026 through 2030 to carry out the simulation exercise provisions.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased awareness and preparedness regarding cybersecurity threats within the agriculture and food sector. It will also foster better coordination between government agencies and private sector stakeholders.
Improved cybersecurity measures could reduce the risk of cyberattacks that could disrupt the food supply chain. The simulation exercises will help identify vulnerabilities and improve response strategies.
Ultimately, the Act should contribute to a more secure and resilient food system, protecting consumers and the economy from potential disruptions.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced cybersecurity for the agriculture and food sector, reducing the risk of disruptions.
- Improved coordination and information sharing among government agencies and private sector entities.
- Increased preparedness for food-related emergencies through simulation exercises.
- Identification of vulnerabilities in the food supply chain and critical infrastructure.
- Development of best practices and recommendations for improving food security and resilience.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing the risk assessments and simulation exercises.
- Possible regulatory burdens on the agriculture and food industry.
- Risk of overregulation that could stifle innovation and efficiency.
- The effectiveness of the simulation exercises depends on realistic scenarios and active participation from all stakeholders.
- The act may not address all potential cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.
Constitutional Alignment
The Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act of 2025 appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). This clause allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation, including ensuring a secure and resilient food supply.
Additionally, the Act's focus on national security and defense against cyber threats could be seen as related to Congress's power to provide for the common defense (Article I, Section 8). The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
However, the implementation of the Act should be carefully monitored to ensure that any regulations or requirements imposed on the agriculture and food industry do not unduly burden interstate commerce, which could raise concerns under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).