This bill amends Section 49-7A-2 to clarify the status of the Statewide One-Call Notification Board as an agency under the Department of Public Safety. It outlines that the Board is funded by revenue from the one-call notification center and emphasizes the Department's role in assisting the Board with the development and coordination of the statewide one-call notification system. The Board is granted the authority to hire employees and contractors to aid in these efforts and is responsible for managing its duties, functions, and funds, with the Department assisting in fund expenditures as per state laws.

Additionally, the bill establishes the state one-call fund within the state treasury, ensuring that any interest earned is deposited back into the fund, which is continuously appropriated to the Board for implementing the chapter's provisions. It mandates that all operators of underground facilities comply with the chapter and its rules, with penalties for noncompliance being enforceable and collected as stipulated by law. The bill reinforces the importance of the one-call notification center, which may operate as a nonprofit corporation, in facilitating communication regarding excavation plans and the marking of underground facilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/03/2025: 49-7A-2
Enrolled, 03/06/2025: 49-7A-2