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HB 1735

TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS UNDERGROUND FACILITIES DAMAGE PREVENTION ACT; AND TO REVISE MEMBERSHIP IN THE ONE CALL CENTER UNDER THE ARKANSAS UNDERGROUND FACILITIES DAMAGE PREVENTION ACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Les Eaves and 1 co-sponsor

Arkansas updates One Call Center membership requirements to improve coordination between construction crews and underground utility operators, enhancing damage prevention and public safety.

Notification that HB1735 is now Act 813
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Bill Summary · HB 1735

Legislative bill overview

HB 1735 amends Arkansas's underground facilities damage prevention law, specifically revising the membership structure of the state's One Call Center—a notification system designed to prevent construction crews from accidentally damaging buried utilities like gas lines, electrical cables, and water pipes. The bill modifies who must participate in this coordination system to better reflect current infrastructure needs.

Why is this important

Accidental damage to underground utilities costs the nation billions annually and poses serious safety risks, including explosions, electrocution, and service disruptions. By adjusting One Call Center membership requirements, Arkansas is updating its damage prevention framework to ensure all relevant utility operators participate in the notification system, potentially improving public safety and reducing costly infrastructure accidents.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden: New or expanded membership requirements may impose costs on smaller utility operators or newly regulated entities that previously weren't mandated to participate
  • Competitive concerns: Changes to membership could affect which utility companies must follow standardized procedures, potentially creating competitive advantages or disadvantages
  • Implementation clarity: The specific membership changes aren't detailed in available information, making it unclear whether certain utility types (renewable energy, fiber optic operators, etc.) are being added or removed

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

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