Connecticut Senate Bill SB00180

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/20
• Refer: 2/20/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Call Before You Dig Program Violations.

Impact

This bill has notable implications for public utilities and their operational responsibilities regarding safety compliance in excavation and construction activities. Specifically, the proposed legislation adjusts the maximum civil penalty from $40,000 down to a lower threshold of $1,000 for certain infractions that do not lead to property damage or personal injury. This change is aimed at creating a fairer penalty system, addressing concerns that the previous thresholds were excessive, particularly in instances where no harm was incurred.

Summary

SB00180, titled 'An Act Concerning Call Before You Dig Program Violations,' aims to amend the penalties associated with violations of regulations regarding the marking of underground utility facilities. The bill establishes a clearer framework for civil penalties that can be imposed on persons, public agencies, or utilities that fail to comply with these regulations. It specifies that any violation, typically related to improper marking or failure to mark within the required time frames, may result in penalties varying significantly based on the nature of the violation.

Contention

Throughout the discussions regarding SB00180, there were points of contention primarily focused on the balance between maintaining strict safety standards and ensuring that penalties imposed are proportional to the severity of the violations. Supporters argued that the bill would encourage compliance rather than punitive financial repercussions for minor infractions, while opponents expressed concern that lowering penalties could lead to decreased diligence in safety protocols among utilities, potentially endangering public safety. The ongoing debate highlighted the need for both effective regulations and accountability for violations.