H.B. No. 3004 amends various sections of the Health and Safety Code and the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to enhance safety regulations regarding work performed near high voltage overhead lines. The bill introduces new definitions, such as "responsible person," which includes individuals or entities performing work or hiring others to do so near these lines. It also clarifies the definition of "overhead line" and specifies that certain exemptions apply to authorized personnel working on electrical or communication systems. Additionally, the bill mandates that any person responsible for work near high voltage lines must notify the line operator at least 48 hours in advance and negotiate safety arrangements to prevent contact with the lines.

The legislation also establishes liability provisions, stating that all responsible parties are jointly liable for damages resulting from violations that lead to contact with high voltage lines. It prohibits individuals from performing work or operating machinery within 10 feet of these lines unless proper safety measures are in place. Furthermore, the bill outlines that responsible persons cannot seek damages in tort from the line owner or operator for injuries related to such contact. The changes will apply only to causes of action that accrue after the bill's effective date, which is immediate upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51.014, Health and Safety Code 752.008, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 31.002, Health and Safety Code 752.002, Health and Safety Code 752.003, Health and Safety Code 752.004, Health and Safety Code 752.005, Health and Safety Code 752.007 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51, Health and Safety Code 752, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 31)
House Committee Report: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51.014, Health and Safety Code 752.008, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 31.002, Health and Safety Code 752.002, Health and Safety Code 752.003, Health and Safety Code 752.004, Health and Safety Code 752.005, Health and Safety Code 752.007 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51, Health and Safety Code 752, Chapter , Health and Safety Code 31)