Bill > HB5475

This bill requires the Railroad Commission of Texas, in collaboration with the board of directors of the Texas Underground Facility Notification Corporation, to conduct a comprehensive study on underground facility damage prevention and safety. The study must investigate the primary causes of underground utility damage in Texas, evaluate the availability of resources for locating and marking utility facilities, identify best practices from public and private sectors to reduce damage risks, and propose methods to improve communication, processes, and safety standards. By December 1, 2027, the commission must submit a written report to key state leaders, including the governor, lieutenant governor, and house speaker, detailing the study's findings and recommending potential legislative or administrative actions. The bill defines key terms such as "Commission" (Railroad Commission of Texas) and "Board" (board of directors of the Texas Underground Facility Notification Corporation), and includes a provision that the study and reporting requirements will expire on January 1, 2028. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in each legislative house, or otherwise on September 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5475