SB 1711 - This act modifies provisions relating to utility colocation along highway corridors. The State Highways and Transportation Commission and the Missouri Department of Transportation shall allow the installation, operation, and maintenance of electric transmission facilities within highway rights of way. The Commission and Department shall develop uniform criteria for colocation of transmission facilities within highway rights of ways. The duty of the Commission and Department shall include providing reasonable time lines and procedures for review and approval of colocation requests, ensuring safety of the public and infrastructure, avoiding duplication of corridors, and imposing reasonable conditions that shall not interfere with colocation. This act is identical to provisions in SB 838 (2026) and HB 3456 (2026). TAYLOR MIDDLETON

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tracy McCreery

SB 1711 modifies utility colocation rules along Missouri highways, potentially affecting infrastructure deployment efficiency and costs for broadband and utility services.

Second Read and Referred S Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy & the Environment Committee

Legislative bill overview

SB 1711 modifies regulations governing how utility companies can place equipment and infrastructure alongside Missouri's highways. The bill appears to streamline or adjust the colocation process—where multiple utilities share physical space along highway corridors rather than each installing separate infrastructure. The specific provisions are limited in the current documentation available.

Why is this important

Utility colocation reduces visual clutter, minimizes environmental disruption, and lowers infrastructure costs by consolidating poles, conduits, and equipment. Changes to these provisions could affect how efficiently utilities deploy broadband, electrical, gas, and telecommunications services across Missouri, particularly in rural areas where highway corridors are primary deployment routes.

Potential points of contention

Property rights and access: Modifications may alter landowner compensation or easement requirements along highway corridors

Competition vs. consolidation: Rules could either facilitate fair access for smaller providers or inadvertently advantage established utilities with existing agreements

Implementation costs: Utilities may face expenses adapting to new standards, potentially affecting customer rates or service expansion timelines