The bill amends the Drain Code of 1956 to enhance the processes for determining and apportioning costs related to drainage projects. Key updates include new provisions for acquiring right-of-way through eminent domain, the establishment of a final order of determination by the drain commissioner, and a requirement for the commissioner to file this order within five days. Additionally, the bill clarifies the commissioner’s responsibilities in determining the number of installments for drainage tax collection and apportioning costs based on benefits to municipalities and landowners. It also improves the notification process for public meetings regarding benefit apportionment, mandating advertising on official websites and mailing notices to affected landowners.

In conjunction with these changes, the bill modifies the municipal finance act concerning the issuance of bonds for drain districts, assigning the drain commissioner the responsibility for additional levies to prevent default on payments. It specifies that these additional assessments apply only to drain orders or bonds issued after March 28, 1956, and outlines exemptions for certain lands. The bill further establishes procedures for the drainage board to secure plans and cost estimates for proposed drains, ensuring consideration of public corporations' benefits in cost-sharing. It allows counties to cover additional costs with a two-thirds vote and mandates that any apportionments for subsequent work be reestablished by the board, detailing the process for altering proceedings if chapter 25 is utilized for cost apportionment.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 280.151
House Introduced Bill: 280.151
As Passed by the House: 280.151