Arizona utilities and labor organizations expressed their appreciation to state lawmakers and Governor Katie Hobbs for approving legislation that strengthens penalties for assaulting on-duty utility workers and helps safeguard critical infrastructure across the state. Senator T.J. Shope (R-Coolidge) sponsored the bill and championed its passage through the legislature.

Utility workers across Arizona respond to emergencies, maintain infrastructure, and support communities during extreme weather and other critical situations. The enactment of SB 1448, the Utility Worker Protection Act, provides additional legal protections that recognize the essential nature of this work and are intended to deter acts of violence against those performing it. The new law, which designates attacks on on-duty utility workers as aggravated assault, will take effect in September.

“Arizona’s utility workers perform their duties in challenging, sometimes hazardous conditions to keep energy and water flowing, and communications systems operating safely and reliably,” said Susan Gray, CEO of Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and UniSource Energy Services. “With the signing of SB 1448, Governor Hobbs has taken an important step to reinforce protections for these essential workers who work tirelessly to serve our communities.”

Utilities and labor organizations in support of the bill are extending their gratitude to Shope for his leadership and commitment to enhancing worker safety and protecting Arizona’s critical infrastructure. Organizations supporting the bill include TEP and UniSource, Salt River Project, Arizona Public Service, Southwest Gas, Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA), Cox Communications, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).

 “The dedicated individuals who keep water flowing for millions of Arizonans perform critical work that our communities depend on every day,” said Warren Tenney, Executive Director of the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA). “The Utility Workers Protection Act ensures that those who threaten or assault field workers are held accountable. This law allows utility professionals to prioritize public service without compromising their safety. We are grateful to Governor Hobbs, Senator Shope, and our legislators for championing this initiative.”

Other professionals who serve the public, including teachers, health care workers, transit employees, and law enforcement officers, already benefit from similar protections.

"On behalf of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in Arizona, we extend our sincere appreciation to Governor Hobbs for signing SB 1448, the Arizona Utility Worker Protection Act, and to Senator TJ Shope for his leadership in sponsoring this important legislation that strengthens protections for the men and women who keep our communities safe and powered,” said Frank Grijalva, International Representative with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and founding member of the Southern Arizona Energy Alliance.” This bipartisan effort reflects a shared commitment across labor, management, and state leadership to safeguard utility workers who face increasing threats in the course of providing essential services to Arizona."

"Our employees work in demanding and often unpredictable conditions to provide safe and reliable natural gas service to the communities we serve.  Safety is the foundation of our culture and informs every decision we make,” said Justin Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer of Southwest Gas. “We appreciate Governor Hobbs and the Arizona Legislature for advancing legislation that strengthens protections for utility workers and reinforces the importance of safe operation as we serve customers across Arizona."