The Arizona Critical Infrastructure Protection Act seeks to amend current statutes by prohibiting the use of critical communications infrastructure software or equipment produced by companies based in or controlled by the People's Republic of China. This includes the removal of any existing prohibited equipment and the establishment of reporting requirements for critical communications infrastructure providers regarding the use of such prohibited technologies. The bill also mandates that government entities and publicly regulated utilities refrain from entering into contracts that would allow China to access or control critical infrastructure in Arizona. Additionally, the bill introduces compliance measures such as annual certifications to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) by critical communications infrastructure providers, detailing any instances of prohibited equipment in use. The ACC is tasked with publishing a list of prohibited technologies and ensuring their removal within a specified timeframe. Exceptions are allowed under certain conditions, such as when no reasonable alternatives exist or when preapproved by the ACC. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the security and integrity of Arizona's critical infrastructure by limiting reliance on foreign entities, particularly those from China.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-105, 41-197, 41-197.01, 197-01
House Engrossed Version: 18-105, 41-197, 116-124, 116-283