Senate Bill No. SLS 24RS-1443, introduced by Senator Cathey, aims to enhance the management of underground utilities and facilities by mandating that municipalities or parish governments that own or operate drainage, sewer, or water systems become members of regional notification centers. This requirement is intended to facilitate the sharing of information related to the mapping and identification of underground utilities, particularly in connection with broadband deployment projects funded by various state and federal programs. The bill also amends existing law to clarify that regional notification centers must furnish relevant information to governing authorities regarding excavation or demolition activities.

Additionally, the bill modifies the language concerning liability, stating that the failure of a governing authority to distribute information from the regional notification centers will not create liability for either the governing authority or the permittee. This provision aims to ensure that the responsibilities of excavators and demolishers remain intact, regardless of the information distribution process. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
SB490 Original: 40:21(B)
SB490 Engrossed: 40:21(B)
SB490 Reengrossed: 40:21(B)