H7173

Incorporates broadband, internet, and wireless means into the crime of injuring electric and communication lines and authorizes municipalities to grant zoning relief for the protection of critical infrastructure.

Complete·6/18/26

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.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

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10
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

36 Yea

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1 Nay

R

1 Not Voting

D

Calendar

May 28

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Consideration

Apr 7

12:00 AM

House Corporations Consideration

History

Jun 18

House

Signed by Governor

Jun 16

House

Transmitted to Governor

Jun 9

Senate

Senate passed as amended in concurrence