Va. House Panel Clears Railroad Safety Bill on Broadband

A Virginia bill to protect railroads from broadband construction interference cleared a House Commerce subcommittee Thursday. The subcommittee voted 7-1 for HB-1752, which allows broadband construction to cross the rails if it’s designed to prevent damage to the railroad and ensure passenger safety. An ISP would have to notify the railroad company of its desired crossing date and pay $1,500 per crossing in most cases. Under the bill, a railroad company could petition the Virginia State Corporation Commission if it believes the crossing would cause undue hardship or cause danger. The commission would have power to suspend construction while deciding the case. The bill must still be considered by the full Commerce Committee.