SB311 Summary

• Amends Section 23-1-4 of the Alabama Code to establish permit processing timelines for electric providers seeking access to state highway rights-of-way for electric transmission infrastructure.

• Department of Transportation must determine application completeness within 14 business days; if incomplete, must notify applicant of deficiencies in writing.

• Department must approve or deny completed permit applications within 35 business days, with option for one-time 10-business-day extension upon written notice to applicant.

• Permit is deemed automatically approved upon posting of required deposit or bond if department fails to approve or deny within required timeframe, unless applicant waives this provision.

• Condemnation actions related to permit applications must be assigned to expedited track in circuit court for resolution as expeditiously as feasible; act becomes effective October 1, 2025.