Bill > H3446

This bill seeks to enhance municipal oversight and input into gas utility infrastructure work by establishing new requirements for gas companies when they want to dig up and open streets or public ways. The bill amends existing law to require gas companies to obtain written consent from city councils or select boards before performing infrastructure work, and mandates that these companies provide detailed information about proposed projects within 30 days of a municipal request. This information includes specifics like pipeline age, condition, material type, leak history, repair timelines, and potential risks. The bill also introduces a mechanism for municipalities to challenge a gas company's non-compliance, allowing them to petition the department to compel the company to provide requested information. Additionally, the bill requires gas companies to notify municipalities within 3 days of submitting infrastructure repair or replacement plans to the department, and gives municipalities 90 days to review and comment on these plans. Gas companies must then respond to municipal questions within 15 days, and the bill includes a provision that projects not properly reviewed by municipalities may have their costs deemed unreasonably incurred by the regulatory department. The overall aim is to increase transparency, communication, and local government involvement in gas utility infrastructure projects.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3446