Luzerne Times

Senator Lisa Baker's bill to amend and extend the Pennsylvania Underground Utility Line Protection Law, known as the PA One Call Law, has been signed into law. This development aligns with the law's 50th anniversary, emphasizing its role in protecting Pennsylvanians and those who maintain underground utilities such as gas, water, and telecommunications.

“With the signing of this bill, we are reaffirming our bipartisan commitment to public safety and the protection of our workforce,” stated Baker. “For five decades, the PA One Call Law has played a crucial role in preventing accidents and disruptions by ensuring underground utility lines are accurately marked and managed.”

The law was first enacted in 1974 and has undergone several updates, most recently in 2017. Reforms have included transferring oversight to the Public Utility Commission (PUC), mapping unconventional gas lines in rural areas, and creating a Damage Prevention Committee for addressing safety violations. The law was set to expire on December 31, 2024.

Senate Bill 1237, now Act 127 of 2024, extends the PA One Call Law until 2031 and enhances safety protocols. Improvements focus on better communication between excavators, facility owners, and the PUC as well as improved documentation of underground utility lines.

The new legislation takes effect immediately to continue providing essential safety measures.