Indiana 2023 Regular Session

Indiana Senate Bill SB0477

Introduced
1/19/23  
Refer
1/19/23  
Report Pass
1/31/23  
Engrossed
2/7/23  
Refer
2/28/23  
Report Pass
3/13/23  
Enrolled
3/24/23  
Passed
5/1/23  
Chaptered
5/1/23  

Caption

Threats to critical infrastructure.

Impact

If enacted, SB 477 would significantly amend existing legislation related to property sales and contracts involving critical infrastructure. The law stipulates that state agencies and political subdivisions cannot engage in agreements that allow prohibited foreign entities to access or control critical infrastructure or cybersecurity systems. This would serve to bolster Indiana's resilience against national and cybersecurity threats by ensuring that critical assets remain safeguarded from foreign influence.

Summary

Senate Bill 477 aims to enhance the security of critical infrastructure in Indiana by prohibiting certain foreign-owned entities from acquiring or controlling critical state resources. The bill specifically targets companies owned by individuals or entities from countries deemed a threat to U.S. interests, such as China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. Additionally, it establishes provisions that prevent the sale of property adjacent to military installations to these prohibited entities, thereby reinforcing protections against potential security risks.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 477 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers concerned about national security and protecting critical infrastructure. Many legislators advocate for its passage as a necessary step to safeguard public resources from foreign threats. However, there are concerns raised about potential implications for international business relations and the state's investment climate, which may be affected by such restrictions on foreign ownership.

Contention

Notably, there are points of contention regarding the definitions and criteria used to designate a 'prohibited person' and the overall nature of the restrictions placed on foreign companies. Critics argue that the bill may outline broad and potentially vague parameters for what constitutes a threat, which could lead to unnecessary limitations on legitimate foreign investments. There is also a discussion about whether the bill goes too far in limiting property rights and business opportunities, raising questions about its practicality and necessity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IN SB0437

Critical infrastructure.

IN HB2696

Critical Infrastructure; foreign adversary; prohibition

IN SB0378

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, relative to critical infrastructure.

IN HB0549

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, relative to critical infrastructure.

IN SB3543

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTEC

IN HB1636

Indianapolis infrastructure.

IN SB0272

Wastewater infrastructure.

IN SB2370

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTEC

IN HB0282

Critical infrastructure resiliency.

IN HB1645

Rural utility infrastructure.

Similar Bills

WY SF0076

Protecting critical infrastructure from foreign adversaries.

CA AB342

Public lands: leasing: oil and gas: prohibition.

IL SB2370

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTEC

WY SF0102

Foreign property ownership-critical infrastructure.

LA SB356

Prohibits "drones" from flying over chemical plants or water facilities. (gov sig)

WV HB4635

Limiting naming of state funded infrastructure for a current or former public official

NJ S731

Prohibits any foreign company created under laws of foreign adversary from participating in critical infrastructure.

NJ A5361

Prohibits any foreign company created under laws of foreign adversary from participating in critical infrastructure.