LA HB259

Excavators or demolishers using federal BEAD Program (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) funding must provide notice at least one calendar week before beginning any excavation or demolition activity, exceeding standard notice requirements under existing law.

BEAD-funded contractors who damage underground utilities or facilities must take immediate measures to prevent further damage and stop leakage, notify relevant parties immediately, and repair or pay for repairs.

Contractors violating these damage repair requirements will have their final reimbursement from the Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity withheld until they achieve compliance.

All other provisions of Louisiana's Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention Law continue to apply to BEAD-funded excavation and demolition projects.