Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Tom Cotton, and Elissa Slotkin have reintroduced the Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act. This legislation aims to bolster cybersecurity measures within the agriculture sector and safeguard America's food supply chain.

"I will always fight to protect Alabama and America’s agriculture industry. Food security is national security and recognizing that requires our farmland be protected from foreign adversaries, like China. It is absolutely imperative we work diligently to identify any cyber threats to America’s agriculture communities that feed and clothe our state, nation, and world," said Senator Britt.

The bill proposes a biennial risk assessment by the Secretary of Agriculture to evaluate cybersecurity threats in both public and private agricultural sectors. The results would be reported to Congress.

"America’s adversaries are seeking to gain any advantage they can against us—including targeting critical industries like agriculture. Congress must work with the Department of Agriculture to identify and defeat these cybersecurity vulnerabilities. This legislation will ensure we are prepared to protect the supply chains our farmers and all Americans rely on," said Senator Cotton.

Additionally, the act mandates an annual cross-sector crisis simulation exercise for potential food-related cyber emergencies or disruptions, coordinated by various national agencies.

“Food security is national security, and the Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act is a vital step toward safeguarding Michigan’s agriculture and food sectors,” said Senator Slotkin. “Cyber attacks threaten our food supply constantly, and we must ensure both government and private industries are prepared."

In parallel efforts, Congressman Brad Finstad is set to introduce companion legislation in the House. Moreover, Senator Britt has also reintroduced another legislative effort titled "Not One More Inch or Acre Act," aimed at preventing Chinese ownership of American land.

“The Not One More Inch or Acre Act provides President Trump with the necessary authority to safeguard American interests, secure our agriculture industry, and protect our homeland," stated Senator Britt.

Senator Britt was recently honored with the "Outstanding New Member of Congress" award by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). AFBF President Zippy Duvall expressed appreciation for her leadership amid challenges such as high supply prices and a lack of a modernized farm bill.