The bill amends Section 24-8.1-2 of the General Laws regarding the relocation of utility facilities necessitated by highway construction. It establishes that when state-initiated relocations of utility facilities owned by private corporations or companies are required for highway projects, the state will reimburse these owners fifty percent (50%) of the reasonable costs associated with the relocation. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the state will fully reimburse the costs of relocation for utility facilities owned by municipalities, political subdivisions, authorities, or agencies of the state.

The bill specifies that utility relocations must be completed promptly to ensure the timely completion of the affected highway project. Furthermore, it states that for federally aided highway projects, the state may order the relocation of utility facilities owned by municipalities, political subdivisions, authorities, or agencies of the state, and the state will pay the cost of the relocation as part of the federally aided highway project. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7244: 24-8.1-2