Rhode Island House Bill H7775

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/22
• Refer: 3/3/22

Caption

Excavation Near Underground Utility Facilities

Impact

One significant aspect of HB H7775 is its emphasis on protecting excavators from liability in cases of damage resulting from incorrect utility markings. If an excavator damages a utility facility due to an incorrect marking, the bill states that the public utility will be held responsible for reimbursing the excavator for any incurred expenses, including labor and equipment costs. This reimbursement provision aims to enhance accountability of utility companies and minimize disruptions caused by inadvertent damage during excavation work.

Summary

House Bill H7775 focuses on the regulations surrounding excavation near underground utility facilities. The bill amends existing laws to enforce stricter requirements on public utilities for marking the locations of their underground lines prior to excavation activities. It stipulates that any public utility must mark the approximate location of their underground facilities within 72 hours of receiving notice of intent to excavate, thus ensuring that excavators have clear and definitive guidance on where they can safely dig.

Contention

While the bill may streamline the excavation process and hold utilities accountable, potential contention may arise around the implementation of the marking system and the definition of what constitutes 'incorrect marking.’ Critics may argue that defining boundaries for responsibility can lead to disputes between excavators and utilities, especially around the accuracy and timeliness of markings. Furthermore, stakeholders in the excavation and public utility sectors may have differing views on the feasibility and practicality of the bill's timelines and requirements.