CMMC Is Expanding Beyond the DoD: What Civilian Agencies & DOE Adoption Means for You

If you think CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance only applies to companies working with the Department of Defense (DoD), it’s time to think again. During our recent webinar featuring top CMMC experts, a critical discussion emerged about the expansion of CMMC requirements to other federal agencies, particularly the Department of Energy (DOE). 

As more agencies look to adopt the NIST 800-171 standards, understanding how this shift impacts your business could mean the difference between staying ahead of the curve or being left behind. 

Let’s break down what’s happening and how to prepare. 

 Why Civilian Agencies Are Looking to Adopt CMMC 

The Department of Defense implemented the CMMC framework to enhance the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). However, cybersecurity threats are not limited to the DoD. 

Civilian agencies, like the Department of Energy (DOE), are increasingly recognizing the need to enforce stronger security measures across their supply chains. Here’s why: 

1. Growing Cybersecurity Threats 

• The United States faces constant threats from foreign adversaries looking to exploit vulnerabilities in government systems. 

• Sensitive information is not only limited to defense; it spans critical areas such as energy infrastructure, healthcare, and research. 

2. Inadequacy of Current Standards 

• Many civilian agencies are still relying on outdated frameworks, which are often too heavy and complex for their contractors. 

• The DOE currently uses an NIST 800-53-based system, which is far more comprehensive and demanding than NIST 800-171. 

Webinar Insight: 

“The DOE saw very quickly that 800-53 was too heavy for most of their contractors. Now, they’re seriously considering adopting the 171 framework for simplicity and consistency.” — Robert Ashcraft, CMMC Solutions 

When Will Civilian Agencies Implement CMMC Requirements? 

While the DoD is leading the charge, other agencies are starting to follow suit. But how soon will this happen? 

Projected Timeline for CMMC Adoption: 

• 2024: Civilian agencies like the DOE begin seriously evaluating the applicability of NIST 800-171 to their operations. 

• 2026 – 2027: DOE and other agencies are likely to adopt CMMC-like frameworks to simplify compliance for contractors. 

• Beyond 2027: Potential expansion of CMMC requirements to include other agencies such as DHS, NASA, and even civilian healthcare sectors. 

Webinar Insight: 

“We’re looking at a timeline where other agencies will adopt 171-based systems over the next couple of years. It’s not a matter of if, but when.” — Chris Haigh, CMMC Expert 

How Will CMMC Expansion Impact Your Business? 

As CMMC requirements spread beyond the DoD, contractors working with other agencies will need to demonstrate compliance with NIST 800-171 standards. Here’s what that means: 

1. Increased Compliance Burden 

• Companies currently dealing only with the DoD will likely have to expand their compliance programs to meet new requirements from other agencies. 

• Organizations working with multiple agencies will face even more complexity. 

2. More Stringent Assessment Processes 

• The DOE and other agencies are expected to adopt frameworks that include third-party assessments, similar to CMMC Level 2. 

• Failing to comply could result in contract termination or legal penalties. 

3. Need for Verified Consultants 

• As more agencies adopt these standards, the demand for qualified CMMC consultants will skyrocket. 

• Working with the right experts early on will be critical to avoid being overwhelmed by new requirements. 

Webinar Insight: 

“Agencies outside of DoD are going to adopt these standards much faster than people think. If you’re not preparing now, you’re going to be left behind.” — Steve Palamara, Lifeline Data Centers 

Best Practices for Preparing Your Organization 

Whether you’re already dealing with the DoD or expanding into contracts with other agencies, the key is to start preparing now. Here’s how: 

1. Assess Your Current Compliance Status 

• Perform a thorough gap analysis to identify where you fall short of NIST 800-171 requirements. 

2. Prepare for Third-Party Certification 

• If you haven’t already achieved Level 2 certification, make this a priority. 

• Remember that future requirements will likely demand the same level of scrutiny. 

3. Work with Qualified Consultants 

• Use the Cyber AB Marketplace (cyberab.org) to find Certified CMMC Professionals (CCPs) or Certified CMMC Assessors (CCAs). 

4. Use Tools That Simplify Compliance 

• Leverage tools designed to streamline documentation, assessments, and reporting. 

• Make sure your tools are built to handle evolving standards and can adapt to requirements beyond the DoD. 

Make Compliance Easier with USGovCert Tool 

Preparing for CMMC compliance across multiple agencies doesn’t have to be a nightmare. The USGovCert Tool is your all-in-one solution for: 

Managing documentation & evidence efficiently 
Streamlining compliance processes 
Preparing for various certifications 
Keeping your compliance program up to date 

Take a Free Demo of USGovCert Tool Now! — Stay ahead of evolving standards and make compliance easy.