Assigned to NREW FOR COMMITTEE
ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Sixth Legislature, Second Regular Session
FACT SHEET FOR S.B. 1301
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. ยง 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