The term "essential services" refers to critical public services that are necessary for the proper functioning of society and the maintenance of basic standards of health, safety, security and welfare. These services may include utilities such as electricity, water, gas, sewage treatment, telecommunications, transportation (including public transit), emergency medical care, law enforcement, firefighting, and other essential government functions. The provision of these services is often considered a core responsibility of the state or local government, and their disruption can have severe consequences for citizens.