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Bill

HB 2155

Requires municipalities and the department of transportation to reimburse non-rate regulated utilities for site relocation labor costs incurred due to road maintenance

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Hurlbert and 1 co-sponsor

Missouri bill requiring municipalities and DOT to reimburse non-rate regulated utilities for labor costs related to infrastructure relocation during road projects, shifting private utility expenses to public entities.

Referred: Rules - Administrative(H)
#roadsandhighways #utilities
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Bill Summary · HB 2155

Legislative bill overview

HB 2155 mandates that Missouri municipalities and the Department of Transportation reimburse non-rate regulated utilities for labor costs when those utilities must relocate their infrastructure due to road maintenance or construction projects. The bill specifically targets utilities that don't fall under state rate regulation, such as private water, sewer, or utility companies.

Why is this important

Currently, utilities often absorb relocation costs when public road work requires them to move their lines or equipment, which can be substantial expenses. This bill would shift those labor costs to public entities, potentially reducing utility operating expenses but increasing costs to taxpayers and government transportation budgets. The distinction between "rate regulated" and "non-rate regulated" utilities is significant because it affects which private companies qualify for reimbursement.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden shift: Municipalities and DOT face budget impacts from reimbursing what were previously utility expenses; unclear fiscal impact analysis
  • Fairness questions: Why non-rate regulated utilities specifically? Rate-regulated utilities already have mechanisms for cost recovery through rate adjustments, creating inconsistent treatment
  • Definition ambiguity: "Non-rate regulated utilities" may be vaguely defined, potentially opening disputes about which companies qualify for reimbursement

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

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