Governor Signs Sen. Dodd’s Electromagnetic Pulse Attack Bill

Monday, September 26, 2022

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, announced today that Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed his legislation adding electromagnetic pulse attacks to the grounds for which a California governor may declare a state of emergency, ensuring the quick deployment of resources to any natural or made-made strikes that threaten critical infrastructure.

“Evolving technology coupled with aggression we’re seeing from nations such as Russia mean we must be prepared for any possibility,” Sen. Dodd said. “An attack could devastate electronic devices and power sources across the state, so the ability to respond quickly would be essential. I thank the governor and my legislative colleagues for adding this tool to the toolbox.”

The California Emergency Services Act authorizes the governor to declare a state of emergency when specified conditions of disaster or extreme peril exist, and streamline aid to affected communities. Some conditions include earthquakes, floods and wildfires.

Electromagnetic pulse, which is caused naturally by severe space weather or may be weaponized by an enemy, could damage significant portions of the nation’s infrastructure, including the electrical grid, communications equipment, water and wastewater systems, and even cars. Such an attack could be part of a nuclear strike, and Russia remains the United States’ largest and most capable rival, according to the 2021 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community. The government says Russia is expanding and modernizing the capabilities of its weapons of mass destruction, which could penetrate U.S. missile defenses.

Given rising geopolitical tensions and growing threats across the globe, Sen. Dodd introduced Senate Bill 468, which clarifies that the governor can declare a state of emergency in the event of an electromagnetic pulse attack. SB 468 was approved with overwhelming legislative support before being signed this weekend by Gov. Newsom.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents California’s 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Solano, Napa, Sonoma, Yolo, Sacramento, and Contra Costa counties. You can learn more about Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.