House Bill 1503 Summary

• Authorizes rate-regulated public utilities defined under Section 77-3-3(d)(i) to exercise the right of immediate possession for acquiring rights-of-way in connection with facilities to provide public utility service.

• Amends Section 77-3-11 to clarify that rate-regulated public utilities are entitled to exercise rights under Sections 11-27-81 through 11-27-89 for public utility service facilities.

• Adds a new subsection (m) to Section 11-27-81 explicitly listing rate-regulated public utilities as entities authorized to exercise immediate possession rights for rights-of-way acquisition.

• Brings forward Section 11-27-85 for possible amendment without making substantive changes to its current provisions regarding appraiser reports, title transfer, and compensation procedures.

• Takes effect July 1, 2025.