SB 418 Summary

• Adds six new sections (389.585-389.591) to Missouri law governing utility crossings of railroad rights-of-way owned by land management companies rather than registered rail carriers.

• Utilities gain expedited crossing authorization after 30 days from notice, completion of engineering specs, and payment of a one-time $1,500 standard crossing fee, absent claims of special circumstances.

• Standard crossing fee covers direct expenses for the land management company including inspection, engineering review, and administrative costs, plus utilities must reimburse actual flagging expenses.

• Disputes over whether special circumstances exist are submitted to non-binding arbitration with the American Arbitration Association, with potential progression to binding arbitration if parties cannot resolve within 30 days.

• Utilities retain the right to secure crossing rights by easement through eminent domain, and these provisions apply to crossings commencing prior to or after August 28, 2013.