COLUMBUS - State Senator Frank Hoagland (R-Mingo Junction) this week stood before the Senate Judiciary committee and reinforced the need to protect critical infrastructure in Ohio by enhancing penalties associated with certain types of wrongful acts that disrupt vital operations.

"We are beginning to see how critical infrastructure provides essential energy, communications and other vital services and products to the entire state," said Senator Hoagland, sponsor of Senate Bill 250. "This legislation seeks to increase measures of protecting these facilities from wrongful acts that can cause serious harm." 

Senate Bill 250 would prohibit criminal mischief, trespassing and aggravated criminal trespassing and would impose fines on organizations that are found to be complicit with these offenses. 

In recent months there have been a number of reports of tampering with valves and controls at pipeline facilities that can create extremely dangerous situations. 

• Electricity Generation, Transmission, and Generation


• Gas Production, Transport, and Distribution


• Oil, Oil Products, Production, Transportation, and Distribution


• Telecommunication


• Water Supply


• Agricultural Resources, Food Production, & Distribution


• Heating


• Transportation Systems


• Security Services

Senate Bill 250 will continue to receive the consideration of the committee.

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