Across Pennsylvania we frequently encounter dangerously low, damaged, or fallen telecommunications lines, often complicated by downed or overhanging tree limbs. These situations can obstruct traffic, threaten public safety, and burden local governments that currently lack a clear mechanism to require timely remediation from telecommunications carriers.

I will soon introduce legislation that would require telecommunication carriers to respond to these issues. Under the requirements of my bill, when notified by a municipality or Commonwealth agency that a telecommunications line is damaged, broken, cut, or in direct contact with a tree limb, and where it endangers or interferes with vehicle or pedestrian traffic, a telecommunications carrier must promptly remove the obstructing tree limb and repair the affected line.

Our communities depend on reliable telecommunications infrastructure, but even more importantly, they depend on safe roadways and sidewalks. This bill provides clarity, accountability, and a reasonable framework to address hazardous conditions promptly.

I hope you will consider joining me in sponsoring this important public safety measure.