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. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of the drain commissioner regarding the number of installments for drainage tax collection and the apportionment of costs based on benefits to municipalities and landowners. Additionally, it improves the notification process for public meetings on benefit apportionment, requiring advertising on official websites and mailing notices to affected landowners.

Further amendments focus on the issuance of bonds for drain districts, assigning the drain commissioner the responsibility for additional levies necessary to prevent default on payments, while specifying that these assessments apply only to drain orders or bonds issued after March 28, 1956. The bill also outlines the drainage board's responsibilities in securing and approving plans for proposed drains, mandating consideration of benefits to public corporations when determining cost percentages. It allows counties to assume additional costs with a two-thirds vote from the county board of commissioners and requires reestablishment of apportionments for subsequent work, ensuring that proceedings are adjusted if chapter 25 is utilized for cost apportioning.

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