The bill amends existing laws related to the relocation of utility facilities and the acquisition of real property by the State Highway Commission. It establishes a structured process for relocating utility facilities on public rights-of-way, introducing definitions for terms such as "extraordinary event," "municipal utility system," and "relocation agreement." The responsibilities of the Arkansas Department of Transportation and utility companies in negotiating relocation agreements are clearly outlined, including the submission of proposals and timelines for completion. The bill also specifies penalties for utilities that do not comply with these processes, including civil penalties for delays not attributed to extraordinary events, and allows the department to relocate municipal utility systems that fail to adhere to agreements.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that municipal utility systems inspect underground facilities before they are covered and allows them to pursue claims against other entities for relocation costs. It requires these systems to pay the non-disputed portion of relocation costs within ninety days of receiving an invoice and to engage in a dispute resolution process for any disputed amounts. The bill details a coordination process for utility relocations, including scheduling meetings, providing relocation plans, and documenting decisions. It also tasks the department with creating rules for implementing these provisions, aiming to enhance the transparency and efficiency of the relocation process.