Internet providers cross railway lines, while courts determine new law’s validity

A Virginia law streamlining broadband deployment across railroads is in courthouse limbo. The law is in effect, however, and the electric cooperatives it was meant for are using it. Virginia’s electric co-ops have completed work at about 37 crossings since the law went into effect on July 1, 2023, according to the Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives. The legislation reduced the approval process time and lowered costs to internet service providers needing to cross railroads. But now, railroads Norfolk Southern and CSX have filed suit to have the law deemed unconstitutional. The State Corporation Commission, in orders filed in June, found that the proposed crossings will not cause undue hardship to the railways, and that compensation should be addressed after the work is done and the parties understand better how much it cost Norfolk Southern and CSX.