AL HR88

Urges protection of the nation's electric power grid from dynamic cyber threats, including natural events and malicious cyber or physical attacks.

Recognizes the electric power industry as one of 16 critical infrastructure sectors vital to national security and that incapacitation would have debilitating effects on security, economic security, and public health.

Affirms that electric and nuclear sectors have rigorous mandatory standards developed by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation under Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversight to protect bulk electric system security.

Calls for continued coordination between private and public sectors in planning and recovery from manmade and naturally occurring events that could disrupt electricity.

Advises states to proceed cautiously when considering legislative or regulatory approaches to cyber issues to avoid unintended consequences to existing regulations and standards.