The bill establishes the Utility Relocation Reimbursement Grant Program within the Department of Commerce, which will be funded by a portion of communications services tax remittances. Starting October 1, 2025, the Department of Revenue is required to allocate $50 million annually to the Grants and Donations Trust Fund for this purpose. The legislation also revises the percentage reduction of funds transferred to the Local Government Half-cent Sales Tax Clearing Trust Fund and mandates that service providers initiate relocation work upon receiving notice from county or municipal authorities. Providers can apply for reimbursement of relocation expenses through the new grant program.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of utility owners regarding relocation work when their facilities interfere with public roadways or rail corridors. It requires utilities to respond to notifications from authorities within a specified timeframe and establishes conditions under which costs for utility work may be covered by the state or local authorities. The bill also includes provisions for joint participation in costs and sets notification requirements for utility providers regarding upcoming projects. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the utility relocation process and ensure funding is available to support these efforts, with the act set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 818 Filed: 337.403, 125.42
S 818 c1: 337.403, 125.42
S 818 c2: 337.403, 125.42
S 818 c3: 212.20, 337.403, 125.42, 202.18, 212.181, 218.65