The bill, S.B. No. 501, aims to enhance underground facility safety in Texas by amending various sections of the Utilities Code. Key changes include a broader definition of "underground facility" to encompass a wider range of services, including telecommunications, electrical energy, natural gas, petroleum products, and other materials. The bill also modifies the requirements for operators to provide general information to residential customers about excavation activities and establishes a fee structure for services provided by the corporation overseeing these operations. Additionally, it mandates that all operators participate in a notification center and outlines their responsibilities regarding the marking of underground facilities and reporting damage.

Significant deletions from the current law include the removal of references to "Class A underground facilities," which broadens the applicability of the regulations to all operators rather than a specific class. The bill also repeals certain sections of the Utilities Code that may have previously defined or limited the scope of underground facility operators. The changes are designed to improve safety measures and communication regarding underground facilities, ultimately aiming to reduce accidents and enhance public awareness. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Utilities Code 251.002, Utilities Code 251.009, Utilities Code 251.060, Utilities Code 251.062, Utilities Code 251.105, Utilities Code 251.107, Utilities Code 251.157, Utilities Code 251.159, Utilities Code 251.203 (Utilities Code 251)