Allows the state to require utilities to relocate facilities for certain highway projects and to pay the cost of the relocation to the utility as part of the cost of the federally aided highway project.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would give the state of Rhode Island the authority to require utility companies — such as electric, gas, water, or telecommunications providers — to move their equipment and infrastructure when it stands in the way of certain highway construction or improvement projects. Currently, when a road project requires utilities to relocate their lines, pipes, or other facilities, there can be questions about who is responsible for covering those costs. This bill would clarify that the state can direct utilities to make those moves as needed.

Importantly, the bill also addresses who pays for these relocations. It would allow the cost of moving utility infrastructure to be covered as part of the overall expense of federally aided highway projects — meaning federal highway funding could be used to reimburse utility companies for their relocation costs, rather than the utilities having to absorb those expenses on their own.

This bill would primarily affect utility companies operating in Rhode Island and the state's Department of Transportation, which oversees highway projects. Utility customers could indirectly benefit if it prevents companies from passing relocation costs on to ratepayers. Taxpayers and the state would also be affected, as the bill ties these costs to federally funded projects, potentially reducing the burden on the state budget.

The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Senate Finance Committee, which has recommended it be held for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward toward a vote.