The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to enhance the regulations surrounding excavation work and the management of underground utility facilities in Ohio. Notable changes include a revised definition of "working days," which now runs from midnight to 11:59 p.m. on the same day, excluding weekends and legal holidays. The definition of "excavation" has also been broadened to exclude certain activities, such as milling asphalt and utility pole inspections, as long as they do not penetrate the earth beyond specified depths. Additionally, the bill requires utilities to actively participate in protection services and their positive response systems, ensuring effective communication regarding potential conflicts between existing underground facilities and proposed excavation sites.

The bill introduces a new notification requirement for excavators, mandating that they inform a protection service at least two working days, but no more than sixteen calendar days, before starting excavation, replacing the previous forty-eight-hour notice requirement. It also clarifies that for large excavation projects that progress over time, written notice with projected timelines must be provided to facilitate the marking of underground utilities. In emergency situations, while notification is still required, it does not need to occur prior to excavation. The bill removes references to "limited basis participants" in the notification process, clarifies the responsibilities of property owners and excavators, and allows public authorities to withhold project approval until all requirements are satisfied, while also granting them immunity from liability based on the information provided during the approval process.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3781.25, 3781.26, 3781.27, 3781.271, 3781.28