Senate Engrossed

grid security; cybersecurity; reviews; commission

State of Arizona

Senate

Fifty-seventh Legislature

First Regular Session

2025

SENATE BILL 1501

An Act

amending title 40, chapter 2, article 6.2, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 40-360.14; relating to the power plant and transmission line siting committee.

(TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)

Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Arizona:

Section 1. Title 40, chapter 2, article 6.2, Arizona Revised Statutes, is amended by adding section 40-360.14, to read:

START_STATUTE40-360.14. Grid security review; plan; cybersecurity

notwithstanding section 40-360.02, The commission shall conduct an annual grid security review. in conducting the review, the commission shall:

1. research and evaluate the generation and grid management technologies that will accommodate a two-way flow of electricity and that protect against a physical attack and a cyberattack.

2. evaluate the dangers associated with an electromagnetic pulse and the steps NECESSARY to secure a CONTINUOUS supply of ELECTRICITY TO the RESIDENTS of this state.

3. EVALUATE new information technology systems and how protections are implemented, as required. 

4. Encourage investor-owned utilities to rectify deficiencies that were identified in the grid security review and develop security plans that evaluate and consider the time and costs that are associated with implementing changes. This paragraph does not apply to electric cooperatives and public power entities.

5. Every two years, review the cybersecurity and grid protection protocols. END_STATUTE

Sec. 2. Legislative findings and intent

It is the policy of this state to:

1. Diversify access to energy generation assets that reduce costs and ensure additional grid reliability.

2. Prepare for the effects of electromagnetic pulses through targeted approaches that coordinate whole-of-government activities and encourage private-sector engagement.[2. Prepare for the effects of electromagnetic pulses through targeted approaches that coordinate whole-of-government activities and encourage private-sector engagement.