Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act

Key Points

• The bill creates a new Department of Energy program focused on protecting pipelines and liquefied natural gas facilities from both physical attacks and cyberattacks, with coordination across federal agencies, states, and the energy sector.
• The Department of Energy would lead the coordinated federal and state response when physical or cyber incidents hit the energy sector, creating a clearer chain of command for emergencies.
• The program includes developing advanced cybersecurity tools and running pilot demonstration projects, but their adoption by energy companies would be voluntary rather than mandatory.
• Workforce training is a key component, with the Department of Energy tasked with building curricula to help energy sector workers understand and respond to physical and cyber threats.
• The bill explicitly preserves the existing authority of other federal agencies over pipeline security, meaning it does not take power away from agencies like the Transportation Security Administration or others.