“We applaud Sens. Schmitt and Padilla for introducing the Senate companion to the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act, building important bipartisan, bicameral momentum to address the growing threat of vandalism to our nation’s critical communications infrastructure. These networks are essential to public safety, national security, and daily life, yet increasing copper theft and intentional damage are disrupting emergency services, harming communities, and leaving consumers without vital connectivity. Strengthening federal law with tougher deterrents and penalties will help protect these critical networks and the millions of Americans who rely on them every day.”