Further providing for definitions, for duties of facility owners, for duties of designers, for duties of excavators, for duties of project owners, for damage prevention committee, for compliance orders and for administrative penalties; providing for action for recovery of penalty or forfeiture; and further providing for expiration of act.
Impact
The proposed changes will have significant implications for how excavation projects are managed in Pennsylvania. The bill mandates that all involved parties are well-informed about their responsibilities when it comes to identifying and reporting the locations of underground facilities. The formation of a damage prevention committee is also a crucial aspect, as it will be responsible for monitoring compliance and conducting reviews of any reported violations. This committee aims to facilitate better communication and accountability among stakeholders in the excavation process.
Summary
House Bill 2189 aims to amend Pennsylvania's Underground Utility Line Protection Law to enhance safety measures surrounding excavation and demolition activities. The legislation outlines clearer definitions for terms related to excavation work and underground facilities. It specifies the duties of facility owners, designers, excavators, and project owners while also creating a damage prevention committee tasked with overseeing adherence to these regulations. This bill seeks to minimize risks associated with damage to underground utilities, thereby enhancing public safety and protecting infrastructure.
Sentiment
Sentiments surrounding HB2189 appear generally favorable among legislators and industry professionals focused on safety. They acknowledge the importance of robust regulations to prevent accidents and damage to underground utilities. However, some concerns have been raised about the potential administrative burden that these new requirements might impose on small contractors and local municipalities. Discussions indicate a consensus on the necessity for improved safety measures while balancing the need for operational flexibility within the industry.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the enforcement mechanisms associated with compliance. Critics are worried that the administrative penalties could be perceived as excessive, especially for minor infractions. There are also concerns about the clarity and accessibility of the regulations for small excavators, who may struggle to comply with the new requirements. These sentiments highlight the need for education and support to ensure that all stakeholders understand and can adhere to the new regulations under HB2189.
Further providing for definitions, for duties of facility owners, for duties of designers, for duties of excavators, for duties of project owners, for damage prevention committee, for compliance orders and for administrative penalties; providing for action for recovery of penalty or forfeiture; and further providing for expiration of act.
Further providing for definitions, for duties of facility owners, for duties of designers, for duties of excavators, for duties of project owners, for damage prevention committee, for compliance orders and for administrative penalties; providing for action for recovery of penalty or forfeiture; and further providing for expiration of act.
Requires underground structural assessment prior to commencing public highway or public transportation projects within close proximity to operating or retired mines.
Providing for minimum wage standards in underground infrastructure work, for application of Prevailing Wage Act, for enforcement, for penalties and appeals and for protection from retaliation; and creating a private right of action.