MTS CYBER Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. McDowell, Addison P. [R-NC-6]
- Committees
- Homeland Security Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 15, 2026
Bottom line
The bill mandates a GAO audit to evaluate if the Coast Guard possesses sufficient funding and resources to effectively manage and protect the marine transportation system from cyber threats.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Comptroller General of the United States (GAO) to conduct a comprehensive review of the Coast Guard's budget, resources, and capabilities. The review will specifically assess the Coast Guard's ability to fulfill its responsibilities as a co-Sector Risk Management Agency (SRMA) for the marine transportation system (MTS), focusing on cybersecurity funding, personnel capacity for compliance evaluation, and the adequacy of industry guidance.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the increasing frequency and severity of cyber threats to the economically vital marine transportation system necessitate a thorough, independent assessment of the Coast Guard's capacity. Given recent expansions of the Coast Guard's regulatory authority in cybersecurity and concerns about underfunding, a GAO review is crucial to ensure the agency is adequately resourced and staffed to protect this critical infrastructure.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that mandating a GAO review could be an unnecessary bureaucratic step, potentially diverting resources or delaying direct action. They may argue that existing oversight mechanisms are sufficient or that the Coast Guard's resource needs are already known and being addressed through ongoing processes, making a new legislative mandate redundant.
The bill is concise and clearly written, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its purpose and provisions quickly.
Section 1
Short Title
This section establishes the official short titles for the Act: the 'Marine Transportation System Cybersecurity Budget and Evaluation Report Act of 2026' or the 'MTS CYBER Act of 2026.' These titles provide a concise and easily recognizable name for the legislation, facilitating its reference and discussion.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that clear and concise short titles facilitate easy reference and public understanding of the bill's purpose, making legislative discourse more efficient.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against short title provisions as they are standard legislative practice and do not alter policy substance.
Tradeoffs
None.
Section 2
Congressional Findings on MTS Cybersecurity
This section outlines Congress's rationale for the bill, highlighting the significant economic importance of maritime trade to the U.S. economy and the increasing cyber threats to the marine transportation system (MTS). It notes the Coast Guard's designation as a co-Sector Risk Management Agency (SRMA) for the MTS, recent expansions of its cybersecurity authority, and expresses concern that the Coast Guard is currently underfunded and understaffed for these critical duties, thus necessitating a GAO audit.
Section 3(a)
Mandate for GAO Review of Coast Guard SRMA Capabilities
This section directs the Comptroller General of the United States (GAO) to conduct a comprehensive review within 270 days of the bill's enactment. The review must assess the Coast Guard's funding and resource needs for its Sector Risk Management Agency (SRMA) responsibilities, specifically evaluating the sufficiency of funding for cybersecurity personnel, training, and enforcement, the ability of personnel to evaluate compliance with cybersecurity requirements, and the adequacy of guidance provided to industry stakeholders on cyber regulations.
Section 3(b)
GAO Report Submission
This section mandates that the Comptroller General submit the findings and recommendations from the review required under subsection (a) to several key congressional committees. These include the Senate Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Appropriations, and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, as well as the House Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, Appropriations, and Homeland Security.