The bill amends Section 24-8.1-2 of the General Laws regarding the relocation of utility facilities necessitated by highway construction. It specifies that when state-initiated relocations are required for utility facilities owned by private corporations or companies, the state will reimburse these entities fifty percent (50%) of the reasonable costs associated with the relocation. The bill removes references to municipalities, political subdivisions, authorities, or agencies of the state in the context of private utility relocations, thereby streamlining the reimbursement process for private entities. Additionally, it clarifies that the state will fully reimburse the costs for relocations involving utility facilities owned by municipalities and political subdivisions.

The bill also establishes that utility relocations must be completed to the satisfaction of the state within designated target dates and according to state design criteria to qualify for reimbursement. The act is set to take effect upon passage, ensuring that the outlined reimbursement structure is implemented for future highway projects. Overall, the bill aims to facilitate the relocation of utility services in conjunction with highway construction while providing clear financial guidelines for both private and municipal utility owners.

Statutes affected:
248: 24-8.1-2