The bill amends several sections of the General Laws to enhance the protection and definition of critical infrastructure, particularly in the context of disaster response and the regulation of metals. It incorporates "wireless" into the definition of critical infrastructure and expands the scope to include broadband and wireless communication networks. The bill authorizes municipalities to grant zoning relief for the protection of critical infrastructure that has been or is reasonably at risk of vandalism, trespass, theft, or damage due to extreme weather or climate change-related disasters.

Additionally, the bill modifies the legal framework surrounding the purchase and sale of regulated metals. It requires secondary metals recyclers to notify the police department upon receipt of certain materials and establishes a holding period for specific types of property, including those known to be used by or belonging to communication companies. The bill also updates the penalties for willfully damaging electric or communication lines to include various forms of communication technology. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
7173: 5-94-2, 11-35-4, 45-24-41
7173  as amended: 5-94-2, 11-35-4, 45-24-41