In light of recent findings that unauthorized communication devices, potentially linked to foreign adversaries, have been discovered in Chinese-manufactured solar power inverters, Senator Doug Steinhardt (R-23) has issued a statement expressing his concerns.
“The recent discovery of rogue communication devices underscores a chilling reality: our critical infrastructure is vulnerable, and New Jersey’s leadership is asleep at the wheel. Allowing hostile foreign governments like China to potentially penetrate our technology and energy networks is not just an economic issue—it’s a serious and growing national security threat,” stated Steinhardt.
He further emphasized the gravity of the situation by saying, “This is no longer a hypothetical danger. We are now seeing tangible evidence that surveillance tools from adversarial nations are operating undetected in systems that power our homes and communities and in this instance, CCP spy tech is hiding in plain sight.”
Senator Steinhardt has been vocal about these issues for years and criticized Governor Murphy along with Trenton Democrats for their lack of action. He urged them to pass his proposed legislation aimed at preventing foreign adversaries from accessing New Jersey’s infrastructure and technology.
Steinhardt sponsors several bills designed to protect New Jersey from foreign threats:
– S-728: Prohibits government entities from procuring and using technology products and services from companies owned by, controlled by, or domiciled in certain foreign countries.
– S-731: Prohibits foreign companies created under the laws of foreign adversaries from participating in critical infrastructure.
– S-723: Restricts all ownership of agricultural land in the State by foreign governments and foreign persons.
– S-3591: Prohibits ownership of certain protected land adjacent to military facilities in the State by certain foreign governments and persons.
“We cannot afford to let our energy systems, our food supply, or any strategic assets fall into the hands of those who wish us harm,” concluded Steinhardt. “The time to act is now.”
