SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6703
BYSenators Benitz and Madsen
Changing provisions relating to underground facilities.
Senate Committee on Energy and Utilities
Senate Hearing Date(s):February 3, 1988; February 4, 1988
Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6703 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.
Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Madsen, Nelson, Owen, Stratton, Williams.
Senate Staff:Paul Parker (786-7455)
February 4, 1988
AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, FEBRUARY 4, 1988
BACKGROUND:
Utilities have primary responsibility for marking underground utilities. Excavators are responsible for determining the placement of underground facilities before digging and are required to use reasonable care to avoid damaging underground facilities. Where damage occurs as a result of failure to comply with statutory duties imposed on utilities and excavators, under Chapter 19.122 RCW, the party that failed to perform its duty is liable for damages. Common law remedies for personal injury or for property are allowed.
SUMMARY:
Where available, owners of underground facilities are required to subscribe to a one-number locator service. Excavators who comply with Chapter 19.122 RCW are not liable for damages other than the cost to repair the facility.
EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:
Excavators who comply with Chapter 19.122 RCW also are not liable for damages other than those which can be assessed against the owner of the facility.
Appropriation: none
Revenue: none
Fiscal Note: none requested
Senate Committee - Testified: Bill O'Neill, AGC (for); Dick Ducharme, Utility Contractors Association of Washington (for)