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 the state can require utilities to relocate their facilities for certain highway projects and will pay the cost of the relocation to the utility as part of the cost of the federally aided highway project. This replaces the previous requirement for reimbursement to the utility owner.

The bill removes specific limitations and formulas that previously governed the reimbursement process, including the stipulation that utilities would only be reimbursed for 50% of relocation costs and that reimbursement would not cover betterment costs. The new language simplifies the process by stating that the state will cover the full cost of relocation, provided the relocation is completed satisfactorily and within established timelines. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
3132: 24-8.1-2