FERC Issues NOPR Regarding CEII Protection

On June 16, 2016, in Docket No. RM16-15, FERC issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (“NOPR”) proposing to implement provisions of the FAST Act and amend certain other regulations regarding Critical Energy/Electrical Infrastructure Information (“CEII”).  The FAST Act adds section 215A to the Federal Power Act to improve the security and resilience of energy infrastructure in the face of emergencies.  Section 215A requires FERC to establish criteria and procedures for designating information as CEII, prohibit unauthorized disclosure of CEII, establish sanctions for employees that make unauthorized disclosures, and facilitate voluntary sharing of CEII among various stakeholders.