Bill Text: WV SCR25 | 2020 | Regular Session | Introduced
Bill Title: Requesting study on impact of future electromagnetic pulse catastrophe
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 2-0)
Status: (Passed) 2020-03-07 - House Message received [SCR25 Detail]
Download: West_Virginia-2020-SCR25-Introduced.html
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 25
(By Senator Azinger)
[Introduced February 6, 2020]
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the impact of a future electromagnetic pulse catastrophe on the state of West Virginia.
Whereas, Geomagnetic disturbances and electromagnetic pulses have the capability of producing significant damage to West Virginia’s infrastructure and electronic equipment; and
Whereas, West Virginia’s dependence on electricity was clearly demonstrated during the aftermath of the 2012 derecho which paralyzed much of the state; and
Whereas, West Virginia’s vulnerability to severe threats is increasing daily through heightened use and dependence on electronic equipment; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby directed to study the impact of a future electromagnetic pulse catastrophe on the state of West Virginia; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the committee study strategies for prevention and mitigating potential damages caused by geomagnetic disturbances and electromagnetic pulses. In conducting its study, the Joint Committee on Government and Finance shall: (i) Study the nature and magnitude of potential threats to the state of West Virginia caused by geomagnetic disturbances and electromagnetic pulses; (ii) examine West Virginia’s vulnerabilities to the potential negative impacts of geomagnetic disturbances and electromagnetic pulses; (iii) identify strategies to prevent and mitigate the effects of geomagnetic disturbances and electromagnetic pulses on West Virginia’s infrastructure; (iv) estimate the feasibility and cost of such preventative and mitigation measures; and (v) make recommendations regarding strategies West Virginia should employ to better protect itself from and mitigate damages caused by geomagnetic disturbances and electromagnetic pulses; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature 2021, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report, and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.
