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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Sixth Legislature, Second Regular Session
electricity producers; safeguards; electromagnetic pulse
Purpose
Requires electricity producers in Arizona to take steps to secure a continuous supply of electricity regarding the threat of an electromagnetic pulse.
Background
Extreme electromagnetic incidents caused by an intentional electromagnetic pulse attack (EMP) or a naturally occurring geomagnetic disturbance could damage significant portions of the national electrical grid. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency publishes EMP Protection Guidelines that outline four levels of protection measures for infrastructure and equipment, should an attack occur (U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency).
Current statute requires the Division of Emergency Management (Division) within the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs to develop preparedness recommendations for the public regarding the type and quantity of supplies, including food, water and medical supplies, that each person in Arizona should possess in preparation for an electromagnetic pulse that might occur over the United States. The Division must post the preparedness recommendations on its website and must update the preparedness recommendations at least every five years (A.R.S. § 26-305.03).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Requires electricity producers in Arizona to consider the dangers associated with an electromagnetic pulse and take steps to secure a continuous supply of electricity to the residents of Arizona.
2.
Defines electromagnetic pulse as a burst of electromagnetic
energy occurring in the form of a radiated electric magnetic field or conducted
electrical current caused by a coronal mass ejection from the sun, detonation
of a nuclear bomb high in earth's upper atmosphere or a
man-made electromechanical device.
3. Becomes effective on the general effective date.
Prepared by Senate Research
February 5, 2024
RA/KP/sdr