WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTVB) – The U.S. House has passed the Energy Emergency Leadership Act by a unanimous vote which was introduced by 5th District Republican Congressman Tim Walberg and Delaware Democratic Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester.
According to a statement from Walberg’s office, the bipartisan legislation would require the Secretary of Energy to assign energy emergency and energy security functions, including those concerning infrastructure and cybersecurity, to an Assistant Secretary.
Walberg says, “Physical attacks on the U.S. power grid rose by 71% in 2022, compared to the year before. This uptick in attacks on our critical energy infrastructure is deeply concerning and demonstrates the need for more action from the federal government. This bipartisan legislation will strengthen our cybersecurity and emergency response capabilities in the energy sector to effectively prevent and respond to outside threats. I am proud to see the House’s overwhelming support of this legislation which will better protect our grid and other essential energy infrastructure.”
The press release went on to say the legislation would help elevate emergency and cybersecurity responsibilities as a core function for the Department, strengthening coordination across the Department and increase accountability to Congress.
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