news

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) released the following statement on the impacts of the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack and the gasoline shortages it is causing in Virginia:

“I’m closely monitoring the impacts here in Virginia-10 of the cyberattack on the Colonial Pipeline and reports of gas shortages in our district.

“I appreciate the swift actions that the Biden-Harris Administration are taking to ensure adequate fuel supply for Virginia, including issuing emergency fuel waivers and allowing for Interstate highway transport of fuels. Governor Northam has also declared a state of emergency, further increasing flexibility and funding for state and local governments to address any supply shortages.

“This cyberattack exposes serious shortcomings in the security of our nation’s critical infrastructure, leaving us vulnerable to attacks from bad actors both foreign and domestic. It’s imperative that this incident be fully investigated so that we can hold accountable those who are responsible and take all necessary measures to ensure something like this never happens again.

“I urge Virginians not to panic and only to fill your tank if you need to. There are some stations in Virginia which have run out of fuel, but there is enough supply in the Commonwealth to meet our needs right now. Panic-buying is entirely unnecessary under the current circumstances and will only cause worsening shortage issues.

“I will continue to work closely with our state and federal partners to ensure the pipeline supply is restored as soon as possible.”

###