Bill > HB3004

This bill modifies Texas law regarding work, activities, or functions performed near high voltage overhead lines by expanding and clarifying safety regulations. The bill increases the safety clearance distance from six to ten feet for any work, equipment, or materials near high voltage overhead lines and defines who is considered "responsible" for ensuring safety, which includes not just the direct worker but also employers, contractors, and anyone involved in the work. The legislation requires anyone planning to work near high voltage lines to notify the line's operator at least 48 hours in advance and negotiate appropriate safety measures such as temporary line de-energization, relocation, or mechanical barriers. If contact with a high voltage line occurs due to a violation, all responsible parties will be jointly and severally liable for damages and defense costs, and will be barred from recovering damages in tort from the line's owner or operator. The bill also expands definitions of overhead lines to include energized supporting equipment and clarifies exemptions for certain workers like utility employees, transportation system workers, and those operating vehicles in normal traffic. The changes will apply to causes of action accruing on or after the bill's effective date, which will be immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3004