Panel approves updated penalties for attacks on critical infrastructure, unanimous

Delegate Adams presented a substitute to HB 317 that incorporates related provisions from HB 769 and the senate cognate SB 743. He told members the legislation “updates and clarifies our criminal code to ensure that intentional destruction or damage to critical infrastructure ... carries appropriate and consistent penalties.”

Ray Lamuro, president of the Broadband Association, said the Broadband Advisory Council unanimously endorsed the update and characterized the change as a modernization to remove antiquated terms (like "telegraph"). Chloe Hodges of Virginia broadband cooperatives said protecting broadband was important given billions invested in the Commonwealth.

Members stressed proportionality: the substitute preserves misdemeanors for minor repairable damage while targeting serious or intentional disruption that could endanger lives or economic function. The subcommittee voted unanimously to report the substitute (10–0).

What’s next: HB 317 will go to the full committee with the subcommittee’s recommendation.