An Act relative to municipal oversight of utility company vegetation management

This bill requires utility companies to submit vegetation management plans to local municipalities for approval before starting any work, regardless of existing easements or rights of way. The plans must be kept on public record and allow for a comment period by residents who might be affected. Before construction begins, the utility company must address any potential damage to property or impacts on property values. If a utility company fails to follow these rules, the Department of Public Utilities can impose fees and penalties.