HB5966 Summary

• Changes the short title of the Crossing of Railroad Right-of-way Act to the "Crossing and Encroachment of Railroad Right-of-way Act" and adds new definitions for "encroachment" (facilities along railroad right-of-way not exceeding 15,000 feet in length) and "rail carrier."

• Removes the "special circumstances" definition and all references to it, eliminating dispute resolution provisions related to special circumstances claims.

• Establishes that utilities receive automatic authorization to commence crossing activity after 30 days from notice, engineering specifications completion, and fee payment; encroachment authorization occurs after 35 days.

• Sets standard fees at $1,000 per crossing (or $1,500 if crossing over/under public highways where rail carrier owns the fee); encroachment fees are $1,000 for the first 1,000 feet plus $1 per additional foot, unless parties otherwise agree.

• Prohibits utilities from paying application fees, engineering review fees, or permit fees for crossings over or under public streets, roads, alleys, or other public easements; takes effect immediately upon becoming law.