AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Jun 25, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 15, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Reauthorizes through FY2030 DOE's program providing cybersecurity assistance and funding to rural electric cooperatives and small municipal or investor-owned electric utilities.
- Permits DOE to award assistance and funding on either a competitive or noncompetitive basis, whereas current law requires competitive basis only.
- Expands DOE's prioritization criteria to include entities that operate (not just own) defense critical electric infrastructure.
- Protects information shared under the program from disclosure under FOIA and state, tribal, or local disclosure laws.
- Applies disclosure protections to information shared by or with federal, state, tribal, or local governments.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Flexibility in award methods may allow DOE to direct support based on criteria beyond competitive ranking.
- The official summary documents the provisions modified but does not establish predicted effects on funding amounts, utility participation rates, or cybersecurity outcomes.
- Expanded disclosure protections may increase utility willingness to share sensitive information with DOE, though the summary does not quantify this effect.
- The bill reauthorizes existing assistance; no new assistance types or funding levels are specified in the official summary.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Passed House on June 29, 2026 by voice vote under suspension of rules.
- Received in Senate and referred to Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on July 13, 2026.
- No further action is recorded.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 13, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- 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.