I introduced the first legislation to pass in the USA to provide for protecting the electric power grid against the devastating threats of one, an extreme solar storm, known as GMD or geomagnetic disturbance, or two, man-made electromagnetic pulse, known as EMP, weapon of an enemy country or terrorist. Either could cause a blackout lasting months, or longer and profoundly damage electronics. Experts give GMD a 100 percent probability. Woodsome heard the testimony but said it was a 1 percent probability.

The military prepares for EMP attack.

The results were: it passed almost unanimously, and became law in 2013, it was hailed as landmark legislation nationally and internationally, it made Maine the leader among the states, and it made me a recognized and trusted national leader on protecting the grid.

Other states are following us.

Texas Sen. Bob Hall rightly asks, “What business would not want to come to Texas if they knew we were protecting our grid?”

I want that for Maine!

The 2015 book “Blackout Wars” is dedicated to me, it states to “Andrea Boland, who led with courage and grace,” and features Maine as the leading state.

I’ve written many articles, been in documentaries, and addressed many conferences because of our success in Maine – including Idaho National Laboratories, and the annual Data Center World Conference.

Members of The British House of Lords, and of Congress, have invited me to international summits in London, as a U.S. delegate, where Maine’s leadership is celebrated, and had me speak at their Washington, D.C. international summit.

I call that traction.

Woodsome himself blocked Maine’s traction. He changed his position on Sen. Miramant’s follow up bill last year, and led senate Republicans to vote against protections. It failed by one vote. He said Maine shouldn’t lead on it.

Andrea Boland
Sanford