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.

Plain-English Summary

This bill makes two main updates to Rhode Island law related to critical infrastructure and communications technology. First, it expands an existing law about damaging electric and communication lines to also cover broadband, internet, and wireless systems. This means that intentionally damaging or interfering with these modern types of communication infrastructure would be treated as a crime, just like cutting a telephone or power line already is under current law.

Second, the bill gives municipalities (cities and towns) the ability to grant special zoning exceptions or relief specifically to protect critical infrastructure. In practical terms, this could allow a town to waive or adjust certain land-use or zoning rules when doing so is necessary to safeguard important systems like power grids, communication networks, or internet infrastructure — particularly in the context of disaster preparedness and response.

The bill would primarily affect businesses and organizations that own or operate communication and utility infrastructure, local governments making zoning decisions, and anyone who might deliberately damage these systems. It is framed as part of a broader effort called the "Facilitating Business Rapid Response to State Declared Disaster Act of 2024," suggesting its goals include helping Rhode Island recover more quickly from declared emergencies by better protecting essential services.

It is worth noting that this bill has had a mixed legislative history — it was recommended for indefinite postponement at one point, but has also been scheduled for future hearings, meaning it is still being considered and has not yet become law.