If a railroad asserts in writing by certified mail return receipt requested that special circumstances exist, or imposes additional requirements upon a utility for crossing its lines, other than the proposed crossing being a serious threat to the safe operations of the railroad or to the current use of the railroad right-of-way, the utility may object to one or more of the requirements. In such event, the utility shall provide notice of the objection and the specific basis of the objection to the railroad by certified mail, return receipt requested. If the parties are unable to resolve the objection, either party may petition the Public Utilities Commission for resolution of the objection within thirty days from receipt of the objection. Before filing a petition, the parties shall confer in good faith in an attempt to resolve the objection. If a petition is filed, the Public Utilities Commission, within ninety days of filing the petition, shall determine, after notice and opportunity for hearing, whether special circumstances exist that necessitate additional requirements for the placement of the crossing. The order may be appealed pursuant to chapter 1-26. The Public Utilities Commission shall assess its costs associated with a petition equitably against the parties.

Source: SL 2014, ch 217, § 6; SL 2016, ch 223, § 7.