Bill > H3458

This bill addresses the issue of "double poles," which occur when a new utility pole is installed but the old pole is not promptly removed, by establishing a comprehensive fine structure for distribution and telephone companies that fail to complete pole replacements in a timely manner. Under the new provisions, companies will be required to transfer wires, complete repairs, and remove the existing pole within 180 days of installing a new pole, with escalating daily fines if they do not meet this deadline: $10 per day for the first 30 days after the 180-day period, increasing to $20 per day for the next 30 days, then $30 per day for the following 305 days, and finally $100 per day until the old pole is removed. The bill also mandates that pole owners notify other users 72 hours before beginning removal and installation work, allows pole owners to fine users who delay pole removal, and provides a mechanism for companies to petition for relief from these fines. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Public Utilities to develop implementation regulations by January 1, 2027, and includes provisions for notifying local government officials about work delays, ultimately aiming to streamline utility infrastructure maintenance and reduce visual clutter from lingering utility poles.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3458