Bill > H849

This bill addresses the financial responsibilities for relocating utility facilities in North Carolina, establishing new rules for when and how state, city, or public authorities must cover the costs of moving utility infrastructure. Specifically, the bill creates a provision that if utility facilities (such as communication lines, wireless facilities, or pipelines) must be moved due to a federal-aid interstate highway project, the state will reimburse the utility company for the relocation expenses, subtracting any increased value of the new facility or salvage value from the old facility. For cities, the bill mandates that if a municipality requires a utility service provider (including broadband, video programming, telephone, or wireless facilities) to relocate its infrastructure, the city must reimburse the provider for the associated costs. This requirement applies to cities with populations of 5,000 or more, with some exceptions for federally funded road projects. The bill expands the definition of "public service corporation" to include a broader range of communication and technology service providers, ensuring they are covered under these relocation and reimbursement guidelines. By doing so, the legislation aims to provide clear guidelines and financial protections for utility companies when public infrastructure projects necessitate the movement of their facilities.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H849