Bill > H4973

This bill, titled "Critical Infrastructure," aims to prevent certain foreign-owned companies from entering into agreements related to South Carolina's critical infrastructure, which includes communication systems, cybersecurity, the electric grid, and water treatment facilities. The bill defines "company" broadly to include various business structures and "critical infrastructure" as essential systems for public services. It specifically prohibits businesses and governmental entities from granting companies direct or remote access to or control over this infrastructure if the company is owned, controlled by, or headquartered in countries designated as threats, such as China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia, or any other country the Governor designates as a threat. This restriction applies regardless of whether the company's stock is publicly traded, but it does not prevent consumers from receiving essential utility services. The Governor, in consultation with the Homeland Security Council and the Director of the Department of Public Safety, will have the authority to designate countries as threats to critical infrastructure.

Business and Industry

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4973&session=126&summary=B