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HB 4464

Relating generally to Underground Facilities Damage prevention

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathan Kyle and 2 co-sponsors

West Virginia HB 4464 establishes underground facility damage prevention standards requiring excavators to locate utilities before ground-disturbing work to protect infrastructure and public safety.

Chapter 287, Acts, Regular Session, 2026
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Bill Summary · HB 4464

Legislative bill overview

HB 4464 establishes or modifies West Virginia's regulations governing the prevention of damage to underground facilities (utilities, pipelines, cables, etc.). The bill sets procedures and requirements for contractors, excavators, and other parties to locate and protect subsurface infrastructure before conducting ground-disturbing work.

Why is this important

Unintended damage to underground utilities causes service disruptions, safety hazards, and costly repairs. Clear damage prevention protocols protect public safety, reduce liability for contractors, and minimize infrastructure damage. This legislation likely standardizes notification procedures and accountability measures across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: Requirements may impose administrative and operational burdens on small contractors and excavators
  • Liability allocation: Disputes may arise over who bears responsibility when damage occurs despite following procedures
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about how violations are penalized and whether penalties are proportionate to different violation types

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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