Substitute Senate Bill No. 321, also known as Public Act No. 26-20, amends the requirements for excavation projects related to telecommunications and broadband Internet access services. The bill introduces new provisions that require telecommunications service providers and broadband Internet access service providers to submit a notice to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) at least thirty days before beginning construction of any underground facility exceeding five hundred feet in length. Additionally, for any excavation work in state highway rights-of-way, providers must notify the Department of Transportation with details about the proposed facility and any other service providers involved. The bill also mandates that PURA publish information about proposed underground facilities to ensure accessibility for interested parties.

The legislation repeals previous requirements and replaces them with updated conditions for excavation projects. Notably, it specifies that providers must comply with the Department of Transportation's encroachment permit process and install conduits that meet certain specifications, including the installation of pull tapes. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the Commissioner of Transportation can lease space in conduits installed by the Department, and it emphasizes that all authorized providers must adhere to the new regulations, with non-compliance potentially resulting in civil penalties. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process for constructing underground facilities while ensuring fair access and compliance with regulatory standards.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 16-353
ET Joint Favorable Substitute: 16-330g
File No. 348: 16-330g
Public Act No. 26-20: 16-330g