Indy Standard

The U.S. Senate recently gave unanimous approval to a bipartisan resolution that designates April as National Safe Digging Month. This initiative was authored by Senators Todd Young of Indiana and Gary Peters of Michigan. Senator Young expressed, "As Chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports, I’m proud to cosponsor this resolution designating April as National Safe Digging Month. With the weather getting warmer and excavation projects increasing, it is important to remember to call before you dig."

Senator Peters added that accidental damage to utility lines during excavation poses threats to safety and disrupts essential services. "I’m proud to again partner with the Common Ground Alliance to establish April as National Safe Digging Month and help lead the charge to promote safe digging practices that protect Michiganders and utility workers as they build and maintain our critical infrastructure,” he stated.

National Safe Digging Month, initiated by the Common Ground Alliance, aims to raise awareness about safe digging through practices like the "One Call" policy. This encourages contacting "811" before starting any digging project to identify utility line locations. The "One Call" policy is particularly critical as the spring and summer months see increased excavation activity.

CGA President and CEO Sarah K. Magruder Lyle praised Senator Young’s efforts, stating, "Senator Young’s National Safe Digging Month resolution reflects his commitment to smart, preventative solutions that protect both public safety and infrastructure. With 27 million Americans likely to dig without calling 811 first, his leadership addresses a significant risk while supporting his priorities of community safety and economic stability."

Senators Ted Cruz of Texas and Maria Cantwell of Washington also supported the resolution as co-sponsors. The full text of the resolution is available to the public.