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HB 322

Underground Damage Prevention Program; One-Call Notification System, further provided for complex or large projects, sunset extended

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Clouse

Alabama extends its Underground Damage Prevention Program's sunset date and adds enhanced procedures for complex excavation projects to prevent damage to buried utilities.

Read for the Second Time and placed on the Calendar (Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure)
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Bill Summary · HB 322

Legislative bill overview

HB 322 extends the sunset provision for Alabama's Underground Damage Prevention Program, which requires excavators to notify a one-call center before digging to prevent damage to underground utilities. The bill also appears to create additional procedures or requirements for complex or large-scale projects within this notification system.

Why is this important

Accidental damage to underground utilities (gas lines, electric cables, water mains) poses serious safety and economic risks, including explosions, electrocution, service disruptions, and costly repairs. By extending the sunset date, the state continues mandatory damage prevention protocols that protect both public safety and utility infrastructure. The enhanced provisions for major projects may improve coordination on high-risk excavation work.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden on contractors: Expanded requirements for complex projects could increase compliance costs and administrative overhead for construction and excavation companies
  • Definition clarity: The bill's language about what constitutes "complex or large projects" may be vague, creating uncertainty about when enhanced procedures apply
  • Sunset extension rationale: Stakeholders may debate whether continuing the program indefinitely serves the public interest or whether periodic review periods should remain in place

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

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