Subcommittee advances bill to protect critical‑service workers during declared emergencies

The Criminal Law Subcommittee gave a favorable report to House Bill 5,058, which would create limited criminal protections for workers restoring critical services during a governor-declared emergency.

Matt Porath of Mid Carolina Electric Cooperative described 18 years as a line worker and recounted incidents after Hurricane Helene in which crews faced threats and one worker encountered a man with a gun while restoring power. "It slows down our process. It puts another layer of hazard," Porath said, arguing the bill would provide an additional protection for linemen and restoration crews.

Bonnie Anselmo, representing the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, said the measure protects workers for a limited period — from the declaration of emergency until restoration ends — and would apply to electric, gas, water and sewer, telephone and internet service providers. She said harassment during that period would be a misdemeanor and assaults or threatening behavior that endangers workers would be a felony.

With no further questions, the subcommittee ordered a favorable report by roll call (Chairman Jeff Johnson, Representative William Bailey, Representative Robbie Robbins and Representative Seth Rose voted "Aye"). The bill will be scheduled for the full Judiciary Committee agenda.