The bill amends the Drain Code of 1956 by updating sections 73 and 125 to enhance the process for proposed drains. It requires the drain commissioner to obtain plans, specifications, and a cost estimate from a professional engineer, and mandates that this information be communicated to freeholders in the drainage district within specified timeframes. Freeholders are given the opportunity to withdraw their support for the proposed drain within 21 days of receiving the cost estimate, and if enough freeholders withdraw, a new petition cannot be filed for at least one year.

Additionally, the bill modifies the review process for the apportionment of benefits and the computation of total costs associated with the proposed drain. It stipulates that the computation must be completed and made available for inspection before the review of apportionment, and if not completed in time, the review may be adjourned. The bill also ensures that freeholders are informed of the total cost computation and can withdraw their support under similar conditions as outlined in section 73. Overall, these amendments aim to improve transparency and communication between the drain commissioner and freeholders regarding proposed drainage projects.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 280.73, 280.125