This Industrial Cyber piece examines new bipartisan legislation designed to protect the U.S. agriculture sector from foreign cyberattacks. By highlighting agriculture as an emerging target for hostile actors, the article underscores how cybersecurity has become critical for safeguarding food supply chains and national resilience. Reach out to Rayon City Technologies, LLC. for guidance on strengthening protection in your own critical environments.
What is the purpose of the Cybersecurity in Agriculture Act?
The Cybersecurity in Agriculture Act aims to enhance the cyberattack readiness, response, and recovery of American agricultural infrastructure. It seeks to establish a national network of five Regional Agriculture Cybersecurity Centers to improve cybersecurity preparedness, protect the food supply, and mitigate threats from foreign adversaries.
How will the Regional Agriculture Cybersecurity Centers operate?
The Regional Agriculture Cybersecurity Centers will facilitate communication between local agricultural industries and the national network, develop technologies through testbeds and exercises, provide workforce training for cyber defenses, and focus on mitigating threats from foreign adversaries like China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran.
What funding is allocated for the cybersecurity initiative?
The legislation authorizes $25 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support the establishment and operation of the Regional Agriculture Cybersecurity Centers, which will focus on research, development, and education in agriculture cybersecurity.