SE North Carolina News

Congressman David Rouzer of North Carolina, alongside Congressman Mike Flood of Nebraska, Congresswoman Deborah Ross of North Carolina, and Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate April 18, 2025, as National Lineman Appreciation Day. The initiative seeks to honor over 115,000 linemen who maintain the nation's electrical infrastructure.

The resolution, which has the support of 47 Members of Congress, aims to highlight linemen's essential role in public safety and the protection of the power supply since the construction of the first transmission line in 1889.

"This resolution allows us to recognize the extraordinary courage and dedication of our nation’s linemen — the men and women who work tirelessly to keep the lights on, protect public safety, and respond first when disaster strikes. When natural disasters hit Southeastern North Carolina, it’s linemen who operate in dangerous conditions to restore power and get our cities and state back up and running,” said Congressman Rouzer. “Their hard work powers the lives of 155 million electricity customers across America, and they carry forward a proud tradition which deserves our deepest respect."

Congressman Flood added, “America’s linemen keep our country moving and deliver the energy that keeps the power on in our home and grows our economy. This resolution is one small way that we can honor their great work, which often involves great heights and extreme weather as they maintain our power lines. Thank you to Rep. Rouzer for leading this resolution to honor the hardworking people who keep America’s lights on.”

Congresswoman Ross highlighted the ongoing commitment of linemen in North Carolina, emphasizing, “Rain or shine, dedicated lineworkers make sure North Carolinians have power all year round. Their commitment keeps communities running and keeps us connected with our loved ones. I’m proud to join this bipartisan resolution declaring our appreciation for the hard work that lineworkers do every day.”

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez remarked on the often overlooked work of linemen, stating, “When things go right, no one thinks to thank linemen – and when things get rough, most think it’s magic – it’s our skilled, tough linemen we owe our gratitude. Their work is core to keeping our public power system reliable and affordable in Southwest Washington. Linemen work around the clock in tough weather with backbreaking aerobics and masterful skill – and I’m so proud of their work and to fight on their team.”

The resolution acknowledges the critical and challenging job linemen undertake to ensure the functionality and safety of the country's electrical systems.