IL HB2557

Amends the Illinois Highway Code (605 ILCS 5/9-113) to allow communications providers issued a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission to use highway rights-of-way upon receipt of an application and consent from the appropriate highway authority.

Defines "communications provider" to include telecommunications carriers, voice over Internet protocol providers, broadband service companies, cable operators, and other entities as defined in the Public Utilities Act.

Applies the same requirements to communications providers as currently apply to public utilities for highway right-of-way use, including damage compensation to property owners when the highway authority does not have fee ownership of the property.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.