Requires the owner of a utility pole to remove the old pole within 30 days of installation of new pole.
Impact
Moreover, the bill mandates that electric distribution or telephone companies must complete the transfer of wires, execute all necessary repairs, and remove the old pole within 30 days after the installation of the new pole. If they fail to comply, they may incur a penalty of up to $100 per day. This provision is intended to minimize aesthetic and operational issues associated with lingering utility poles, improving the infrastructure's reliability and appearance while aligning with best practices in utility management.
Summary
House Bill 5574 aims to amend existing laws regarding the duties of utilities and carriers by establishing a process for the removal of double utility poles. A 'double utility pole' is defined as a replacement pole that is positioned alongside and connected to an existing pole used for transmitting various utility services such as electricity, telephone, and cable. The bill outlines responsibilities for the owners of these double poles, requiring them to notify all users about the removal and installation dates at least 72 hours in advance. This notice is crucial for ensuring that all attached equipment can be removed in a timely manner.
Contention
One notable aspect of the bill is the stipulation that collected fines for violations of the removal process will be donated to the low-income home energy assistance program. This includes a focus on supporting vulnerable communities affected by utility regulations. The bill's proponents argue that it offers a necessary framework to address safety and operational efficiency issues related to double poles, whereas opponents might raise concerns regarding the adequacy of timelines for removal and the potential financial burden on smaller utility companies.
Implementation
Ultimately, if passed, this act would empower the division of public utilities and carriers to enforce compliance with these new provisions, further promoting safe and effective management of public utility infrastructure. The measure reflects an effort to establish clearer guidelines for utility operations while considering the implications on local aesthetics and service reliability.
Requires an electric distribution company to develop and act pursuant to a vegetation management plan approved by the DPUC to carry out vegetation management activities on and around utility infrastructure along public and private rights of way.
Requires an electric distribution company to develop and act pursuant to a vegetation management plan approved by the DPUC to carry out vegetation management activities on and around utility infrastructure along public and private rights of way.
Establishes thermal energy networks network infrastructure by any public utility company that provides electric/natural gas distribution to maximize cost-effective investments deemed in the public interest by the public utilities commission (PUC).
Amends several provisions relative the powers and duties of the PUC and requires the submission by utilities of integrated distribution system plans identifying solutions to reduce greenhouse gases.
Requires associations to provide unit owners with thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association’s policy ensuring that unit owners will have coverage relating to their responsibility.
Requires associations to provide unit owners with thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association's policy ensuring that unit owners will have coverage relating to their responsibility.
Requires all public utilities to maintain a customer service facility within the state to perform services such as addressing customer inquiries and accepting bill payments.