FAIRFIELD — The Legislature has approved a bill from Sen. Bill Dodd that would add 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 man-made strike that threatens critical infrastructure.
“I know it sounds like science fiction, but electromagnetic technology is evolving and an attack could devastate electronic devices and power sources across the state,” Dodd, D-Napa, said in a press release. “With the aggression we’re seeing from Russia and other hostile nations, it makes sense to be prepared for the possibility, however remote. Adding it to the list of reasons to declare an emergency makes sense.”
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 pulses, which are 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, Dodd said in the press release. 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.
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 support of the Assembly and Senate, and heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom for a signature.
Dodd represents California’s 3rd Senate District, which includes all of Solano County and all or portions of Napa, Sonoma, Yolo, Sacramento and Contra Costa counties.
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Grusome's need for dictatorial powers makes me wonder what could be deemed an emergency. Cable TV experiencing a 2 hr interruption could give rise to a three day lockdown.
Don't worry Ed. The LLL voters are keeping a close eye on these new laws and you can count on them to vote the right way to keep California moving in the right direction and protect...okay I almost got all that out with a straight face. LOL
Yes... Considering Nuisance response to the wildfires and the possibility he and PGE acted as a team "bug", I would want an entire change of Cal government... Which may be on the horizon if a real need for martial law arises. Mil "Black Ops" vs UN "Blue Hats" vs Nat Grd "Gray Hats" of questionable allegiance converging on Sac would be an entertaining spectacle.