Lycoming News

HARRISBURG – Legislation aimed at protecting Pennsylvania’s power grid by imposing stricter fines and penalties on individuals who target critical infrastructure has been advanced by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senator Gene Yaw (R-23), the bill's sponsor, announced the development.

"Destabilizing the power grid comes with huge national security risks and doing so should not be taken lightly," emphasized Sen. Yaw. "Purposeful damage to these facilities can have a far-ranging impact. We need to send a message to those who would attempt to destroy vital infrastructure and hold these bad actors accountable."

The bill, known as Senate Bill 819, proposes that individuals found guilty of intentionally damaging or tampering with equipment in critical infrastructure facilities will face a minimum of 3rd-degree felony charges and a fine of no less than $10,000. Additionally, offenders may also be subject to civil suits for damages to personal or real estate interests.

Sen. Yaw introduced the legislation following attacks on two electrical substations in Moore County, North Carolina, in December 2022. The incidents, which involved gunfire that resulted in power outages for days in nearby communities, highlighted the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have also raised concerns about escalating threats to the power grid from both foreign and domestic sources.

"Losing power not only disrupts our day-to-day activities but can take lives, especially among our most vulnerable populations," Yaw stressed. "We need to do all we can to discourage these criminal acts before tragedy strikes."

The bill has now progressed to the full Senate for further deliberation.

For more information on state-related news and updates, constituents are encouraged to visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.

Contact:

Elizabeth Weitzel

717-787-3280