Interference with workers providing critical services
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill amends South Carolina law to specifically address actions that interfere with workers providing critical services during a state of emergency. It defines harassment or threats against these workers as a misdemeanor and assault or endangering them, or damaging electric utility systems, as a felony. The bill also establishes a list of ‘critical services’ including electricity, water, roads, and communication services.
Key provisions
- Harassing or threatening workers restoring critical services is a misdemeanor.
- Assaulting or endangering workers restoring or damaging electric utility systems is a felony.
- Defines ‘critical services’ as electricity, gas, water, sewer, road repair, telephone/cell service, and satellite/internet service.
- Addresses violations of a state of emergency proclamation, including curfews and refusal to disperse.
- Prohibits looting and unconscionable pricing during emergencies.
- Specifies penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment.
- Establishes restitution requirements for certain offenses.
Who is affected
- Workers in critical service industries (electric, gas, water, sewer, road repair, telephone/cell, internet)
- Individuals who threaten or harass critical service workers
- Individuals who assault or endanger critical service workers
- Electric utility companies and their employees
Bill text
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