Bill > S731

Introduced Session

This bill prohibits any foreign company created under the laws of a foreign adversary from participating in critical infrastructure in this State. The bill defines "foreign adversary" to mean any foreign government determined by the United States Secretary of Commerce to have engaged in a long-term pattern or serious instances of conduct significantly adverse to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons. Under the bill, the State of New Jersey, and all agencies or political subdivisions thereof, are prohibited from allowing a foreign company created under the laws of a foreign adversary to participate in the construction, maintenance, or control of any critical infrastructure in this State. Critical infrastructure includes communication networks, electric generation, gas distribution systems, water pipelines, and related support facilities, such as buildings, offices, lines, poles, pipes, structures, and equipment. The State's safety, security, and stability depend on protecting critical infrastructure from foreign adversaries. The disruption of these key services would significantly disrupt the well-being of the people of this State and the functioning of the economy. The involvement of a foreign company created under the laws of a foreign adversary raises substantial security threats, such as cyber-attacks or the intentional disruption of services. Accordingly, to protect against risks posed by foreign adversaries, it is crucial to ensure that only trusted entities control the State's critical infrastructure.

Committee Categories

Douglas Steinhardt (R)*,  Mike Testa (R)*,  Joe Pennacchio (R), 

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee (on 01/09/2024)

Official Document