SB 426
Preventing damage to underground facilities
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes an Underground Facilities Damage Prevention Board in West Virginia to improve the safety of underground utilities. It aims to prevent damage to pipelines, cables, and other underground facilities by requiring excavators to notify a one-call system before digging. The board will have the authority to investigate damage, assess penalties, and enforce compliance with regulations. It also clarifies definitions related to excavation and underground facilities.
Key provisions
- Creates an Underground Facilities Damage Prevention Board.
- Establishes a one-call system for notifying excavators of underground facility locations.
- Defines ‘damage’ to underground facilities to include impacts and weakening of support.
- Specifies penalties for violations of the article, including training requirements and fines.
- Requires excavators to notify the one-call system before digging.
- Outlines the responsibilities of operators of underground facilities.
- Clarifies definitions related to excavation and underground facilities.
- The board shall not be funded by state appropriations.
Who is affected
- Excavators
- Utility Operators
- West Virginia Residents
- Construction Industry
- Government Agencies
Notable changes
- Creates a dedicated board to oversee damage prevention efforts.
- Specifies a process for assessing penalties for violations.
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