Bill > SB743

This bill expands the existing law that prohibits damaging or trespassing on public services or utilities to include intentional destruction or damage to any fixture, equipment, or information technology system that is used to provide, process, transmit, or maintain public services, public utilities, or other critical infrastructure, which refers to essential facilities and systems vital to the nation's security, economy, public health, or safety as defined in other relevant laws. The bill also makes technical changes to the wording of the law, such as replacing "shall destroy" with "destroys" and "shall damage" with "damages," and clarifies that the offense applies to facilities used to furnish or maintain cable television and broadband services, in addition to existing services like oil, telephone, electric, gas, sewer, wastewater, and water. Penalties remain the same, with a Class 4 felony for significant damage and a Class 3 misdemeanor if the damage can be repaired for less than $1,000, and enhanced penalties for actions that threaten the release of radioactive materials or ionizing radiation.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB743