The interaction of short-pulse high-intensity lasers with solid targets generates large numbers of energetic electrons. The energetic electrons can only penetrate into the solid if the solid can supply an equivalent charge-neutralizing return current. We develop a simple model which shows that in many cases the solid cannot support the required return current and the fast electrons are confined by electric fields to the surface of the target. The target response to laser irradiation depends strongly on the electrical conductivity of the solid.