To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to clarify that utility line technicians qualify as emergency response providers

Progress

Timeline

• Mar 19Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Summary

**What this bill does:** This bill would change federal law to officially recognize utility line technicians (workers who maintain and repair power lines, gas lines, water systems, etc.) as "emergency response providers." **Who it affects:** - Utility line technicians who work for electric, gas, water, and telecommunications companies - Emergency response agencies and coordination efforts - Communities that rely on utility services during emergencies **What would change:** Currently, utility workers aren't formally classified as emergency responders under federal law, even though they perform critical work during disasters like hurricanes, floods, or storms. This designation would: - Give utility workers the same legal protections and benefits as other emergency responders - Improve coordination between utility companies and official emergency response agencies - Potentially provide access to federal emergency response resources and training - Ensure utility restoration work is prioritized during emergencies The bill is currently being reviewed by congressional committees.

How This Affects You