SF908

Senate Bill No. 908 is a legislative proposal aimed at improving the safety standards for the installation of underground telecommunications infrastructure in Minnesota. The bill proposes the following key changes:

1. Installation Requirements and Safety Qualifications: When telecom infrastructure is near (within ten feet) or crosses existing underground utilities, the installation must be carried out by certified "safety-qualified underground telecommunications installers." These installers are required to use specific methods like hand or hydro excavation to locate existing utilities and monitor the position and depth of drill heads during directional drilling operations. Additionally, at least two safety-qualified installers must be present during these installations.

2. Implementation Timeline:

   • Starting July 1, 2025, all such installations within the seven-county metropolitan area of Minnesota must be conducted by these certified installers.
   • From January 1, 2026, this requirement extends to all applicable installations across the state.

3. Exemptions: Installations on private property that are less than 36 inches deep are not covered by these requirements.

This bill aims to enhance safety by requiring specific qualifications for personnel and ensuring certain procedures are followed during the installation of underground telecommunications lines near other utilities.