Bill > HB4731

This bill amends the Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act to create a specific exemption for certain minor excavation work performed by communications service providers. Previously, the Act defined "excavation" broadly to include any movement of earth with tools or equipment. This bill clarifies that an excavation for the purpose of connecting a customer's home or business to a communications network will not be considered an "excavation" under the Act if it is done solely with hand tools, by the communications service provider itself, and to a depth of no more than 12 inches. This change aims to streamline minor connection work without compromising the overall safety goals of the damage prevention act, which requires notification before digging to avoid damaging underground utilities like gas lines, water pipes, and electrical cables. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=4731&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104