Bill > LB542

This bill modifies Nebraska statutes regarding utility facility relocation costs during highway construction projects by expanding the state's financial responsibilities for moving utility infrastructure. Specifically, the bill broadens the definition of a "qualifying utility facility" to include facilities located on various types of highways, roads, and rights-of-way, including those in the National Interstate System, state highways, and local county or city roads. The bill now requires the state to pay for the entire cost of relocating utility facilities during highway projects, regardless of previous contractual agreements, and explicitly includes facilities like commercial broadband and community antenna television services. The legislation eliminates previous limitations on state payment, such as the $5 million funding cap that existed between 1983 and 1993, and removes language that previously allowed utilities to be responsible for their own relocation expenses. By making these changes, the bill aims to standardize and simplify the process of utility facility relocation during transportation infrastructure projects, potentially reducing financial burdens on utility companies when their infrastructure must be moved for road construction.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59459