01 — The Text
What.
- Extends funding through 2030 for DOE program providing cybersecurity grants and technical help to rural electric cooperatives and small municipal utilities.
- Allows DOE to award assistance competitively or noncompetitively (currently competitive only).
- Expands protections for shared information, shielding it from Freedom of Information Act requests and state/local disclosure laws.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Rural and small-town power utilities get more flexible access to federal cybersecurity resources without competing in every case.
- Utilities serving military installations gain priority for help securing critical infrastructure against digital attacks.
- Information utilities share with feds becomes confidential, protecting operational details from public disclosure and potential adversaries.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed it June 29 on voice vote under suspension of rules. Heads to Senate for consideration.
- Contact your senator to push for quick floor action if cybersecurity of rural power grids matters to you.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jun 29, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Jun 29, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4299)
- Jun 29, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4299)
- Jun 29, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 7266.
- Jun 29, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H4299-4300)
- Jun 29, 2026 — Mr. Guthrie moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
- Apr 30, 2026 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 545.
- Apr 30, 2026 — Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-629.