This act does not apply to municipal railroads. The Utilities and Transportation Commission staffs the task force. The task force must make recommendations to the Legislature by December 1, 1999. The legislative members of the task force must come from specific legislative committees. A telecommunications company representative is added to the task force.
Municipal railroads are exempt from the legislation.
Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed. Utilities have tried to negotiate with railroads and have not been successful. The fees have substantially increased. Railroads have worked with utility companies to accommodate utility needs. Utilities also have right of condemnation.