Rhode Island H7173 updates criminal liability for damaging electric and communication lines to include broadband, internet, and wireless.

Rhode Island H7173 amends the crime of injuring electric and communication lines to include broadband, internet, and wireless infrastructure. It also authorizes municipalities to grant zoning relief for critical infrastructure that is at risk of vandalism, trespass, theft, or damage by extreme weather or climate change related disasters. The bill defines critical infrastructure to include communications networks, cable, video, wireless, and broadband infrastructure. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Rhode Island H7173 updates criminal liability for damaging electric and communication lines to include broadband, internet, and wireless.

Rhode Island H7173 amends the crime of injuring electric and communication lines to include broadband, internet, and wireless infrastructure. It also authorizes municipalities to grant zoning relief for critical infrastructure that is at risk of vandalism, trespass, theft, or damage by extreme weather or climate change related disasters. The bill defines critical infrastructure to include communications networks, cable, video, wireless, and broadband infrastructure. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2027.