HARRISBURG – The state must do more to protect its power grid from sabotage, Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) said today.
That’s why he will soon introduce legislation to increase fines and penalties against those who intentionally vandalize or attack critical infrastructure in Pennsylvania.
“In light of the events in North Carolina, we need to do more to hold these bad actors accountable for purposeful damage done to these facilities,” Yaw said. “Destabilizing the power grid comes with huge national security risks and it should not be taken lightly.”
Yaw’s comments reference recent attacks at two electrical substations in Moore County, North Carolina. Law enforcement reports gunfire at the sites cut power to nearby communities, leaving most of the rural region without electricity for days.
Earlier this year, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security also warned of increasing threats to the power grid from terrorists both foreign and domestic.
“Losing power not only disrupts our day-to-day activities, but can take lives, especially among our most vulnerable populations,” Yaw said. “We need to do all we can discourage these criminal acts before tragedy strikes.”
For more state-related news and information, visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Matt Osenbach
(717) 787-3280