Bill > S2190

This bill aims to provide oversight and leverage economic security in rural Massachusetts. It amends Chapter 166 of the General Laws to establish new sections that define key terms like "attachment," "licensee," and "utility," and outline the following key provisions: 1. Require utilities to grant access to licensees (e.g., companies, municipal lighting plants, or cooperatives) requesting to install attachments (e.g., wires, cables) on utility poles, ducts, or rights-of-way within 30 days, and provide a written explanation if access is denied. 2. Require utilities to ensure all necessary "make ready" work (e.g., pole replacements, attachment modifications) is completed within 60 days of receiving a licensee's make ready estimate, and impose fines if this timeline is not met. 3. Establish a "Make Ready Ombudsman" within the Department of Telecommunications and Energy to receive, investigate, and resolve complaints related to utility attachments and make ready work. The bill also directs the Department to promulgate necessary rules and regulations to implement these new provisions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2190