HB70 Summary

• Establishes a procedure for telecommunications providers and network infrastructure owners to deploy broadband and telecommunications facilities across railroad right-of-ways and railroad crossings.

• Requires applicants to submit a completed crossing application electronically with engineering design conforming to National Electric Safety Code or American Railway Engineering standards, accompanied by a one-time $500 standard crossing fee and proof of insurance.

• Permits construction to commence 35 calendar days after the railroad receives a completed application; railroads may only object if the proposal poses a "serious threat" to safe railroad operations, with disputes resolved by circuit court within 21 days.

• Sets insurance requirements of $5 million combined single limit for natural gas utilities and $2 million for other telecommunications providers, with railroad protective liability coverage of up to $2 million during construction only.

• Allows railroads to require facility relocation for operational needs (at provider's expense) unless notice was not timely provided or construction has properly started (then railroad bears cost).