Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen Cybersecurity for U.S. Academic Research Fleet

May 20, 2025 Press Release Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408 WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today , Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 1223 , the Accelerating Networking, Cyberinfrastructure, and Hardware for Oceanic Research Act (ANCHOR Act), a bill that mandates a comprehensive plan to enhance the cybersecurity and telecommunications capabilities of the U.S. Academic Research Fleet. “Our research vessels are the eyes and ears of American innovation, pushing boundaries in science and national security,” said Congressman Harrigan. “If we’re not securing our data and communications, we’re handing our adversaries a blueprint for exploitation. The ANCHOR Act is a line in the sand—we’re protecting what’s ours.” The legislation directs the National Science Foundation to work with federal agencies to assess vulnerabilities in the research fleet’s communications and cybersecurity systems and outline a plan to upgrade satellite communications, secure data systems, and provide training for personnel. The goal is to strengthen the fleet’s defenses against cyber threats and ensure critical research missions can continue without disruption. Congressman Harrigan remains committed to securing America’s critical infrastructure and protecting the integrity of federally funded research. Issues : Science, Space, and Technology National Security