Urging The United States Congress To Convene The Appropriate Stakeholders And Partners For The Fortification Of The Local Power Grid And Other Critical Infrastructure In Hawaii.
The resolution calls for a comprehensive plan to enhance the resilience of Hawaii's infrastructure against potential EMP attacks. It acknowledges that, due to Hawaii's isolated geographical position, the state currently lacks adequate backup power systems, putting it at increased risk. The resolution points to Alaska as the only state that has taken steps to back up its bulk power supply in light of similar threats, indicating a need for Hawaii to similarly safeguard its infrastructure.
HCR189 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii that urges the United States Congress to convene relevant stakeholders and partners for fortifying Hawaii's local power grid and other critical infrastructure. The resolution highlights concerns over recent events involving high-altitude balloons, some of which are believed to be from foreign governments. These balloons are alleged to have the capability of delivering a weaponized electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that could significantly disrupt Hawaii's power supply and enhance vulnerabilities in its critical infrastructure.
The House Concurrent Resolution may evoke various responses as it touches on national security and emergency preparedness intricacies. Supporters may view the resolution as a critical proactive measure to protect against emerging threats from state-level adversaries, while detractors may argue concerns over unnecessary alarmism regarding balloon surveillance and the potential fiscal implications of fortifying such infrastructure. The resolution's mention of cybersecurity also raises important discussion points about the interconnectedness of physical and digital security, highlighting the complexity of threats facing modern states.