SE Valley Times

The Arizona House of Representatives has passed HB2696, known as the Arizona Critical Infrastructure Protection Act. The legislation, sponsored by State Representative Nick Kupper, aims to protect the state's critical infrastructure by banning software and equipment from companies controlled by the People's Republic of China.

Representative Kupper, a veteran of the Air Force, emphasized the importance of this bill in safeguarding essential systems. "We’ve seen the extreme measures China will take to undermine our nation," said Representative Kupper. "The Arizona Critical Infrastructure Protection Act is a crucial step in securing our power grids, water systems, and communications networks from those who seek to do us harm."

The Act restricts the use of Chinese-controlled software and equipment and shifts regulatory oversight to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) for stricter compliance. It also prohibits government entities from contracting with vendors owned by the Chinese government for camera-based school bus infraction detection systems. Furthermore, it requires ACC preapproval for any agreements involving critical infrastructure between China and governmental or publicly regulated utilities.

This legislation aligns with the House Republican Majority Plan's focus on preserving public safety and protecting individual rights against external threats. HB2696 now awaits further consideration in the Senate.

Nick Kupper represents Legislative District 25 in Arizona's House of Representatives and serves as Vice Chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee.

Information from this article can be found here.