The Legislature hereby finds and declares that:

1. The tragic events of September 11, 2001, have refocused attention on the importance of domestic preparedness for acts of terrorism and related emergencies.

2. The events of September 11, 2001, not only impacted our homeland, but also the way of life for all Nevadans.

3. More than ever, the Nevada Legislature, representatives of local government, law enforcement and other public safety personnel, health care workers and technical service providers must lead the charge in fighting against these destructive and demoralizing acts of violence with strong and effective procedural deterrents and enhanced criminal penalties.

4. While local efforts and plans to respond to acts of terrorism and related emergencies are comprehensive, additional statewide provisions are necessary to adequately prepare for acts of cyber-terrorism, environmental catastrophes and other related incidents.

5. As a result of the increased threat of terrorism, the Legislature is compelled to address critical infrastructures, governmental oversight and continuity, communications, and the protection of important government documents and plans.

6. It is therefore within the public interest that the Legislature enact provisions to:

(a) Protect sensitive state documents and computer systems from cyber-terrorism;

(b) Secure the State’s energy, telecommunications and water infrastructures;

(c) Ensure the continuity of government in the event of a terrorist attack;

(d) Develop policies providing for effective communication and interoperability among federal, state and local law enforcement and other first responders;

(e) Provide safeguards in the issuance of government identification; and

(f) Create an effective and comprehensive state oversight structure to coordinate these and other antiterrorism initiatives.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 2451)