House Bill 1062 mandates zero-trust cybersecurity for Maryland community water systems

Maryland's House Bill 1062 is making waves as it aims to bolster cybersecurity measures for community water and sewerage systems across the state. Introduced on April 5, 2025, the bill mandates a shift to a zero-trust cybersecurity approach, aligning with federal standards to protect vital infrastructure from increasing cyber threats.

At the heart of the legislation is a requirement for community water and sewerage systems to adopt a zero-trust model, which emphasizes strict verification for every user and device attempting to access the system. This approach is designed to mitigate risks associated with cyberattacks, which have become alarmingly frequent and sophisticated. The bill also stipulates that by July 1, 2026, and every two years thereafter, these systems must undergo third-party assessments to evaluate their cybersecurity maturity, ensuring compliance with established standards.

The implications of House Bill 1062 are significant. As water and sewerage systems are critical to public health and safety, enhancing their cybersecurity is paramount. Experts argue that this proactive measure could prevent potential disasters stemming from cyber intrusions, which could disrupt services or compromise sensitive data.

However, the bill has sparked debates among stakeholders. Some community leaders express concerns about the financial burden of implementing these cybersecurity measures, particularly for smaller systems with limited budgets. Others argue that the long-term benefits of safeguarding public infrastructure outweigh the initial costs.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its supporters emphasize the necessity of protecting Maryland's water systems in an era where cyber threats are a growing concern. If passed, House Bill 1062 could set a precedent for other states to follow, potentially reshaping how public utilities approach cybersecurity nationwide. The next steps will involve discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers weigh the balance between security and affordability for communities across Maryland.