MS HB577

Amends the definition of "excavate or excavation" in Section 77-13-3, Mississippi Code of 1972, to exclude routine railroad maintenance activities conducted within track structures and adjacent right-of-way from excavation regulations.

Routine railroad maintenance activities are exempted only when performed by railroad employees or contractors with reasonable care to protect underground facilities properly installed by agreement with the railroad.

Creates new Section 77-13-25 to preserve contractual agreements between railroads and parties owning or operating underground facilities or utility lines within railroad right-of-way, preventing the chapter from modifying or abrogating such contracts.

Takes effect July 1, 2014.