The Secretary may make a grant of financial assistance to a State that qualifies under section 6104(b) to assist in improving—

(1) the overall quality and effectiveness of one-call notification systems in the State;

(2) communications systems linking one-call notification systems;

(3) location capabilities, including training personnel and developing and using location technology;

(4) record retention and recording capabilities for one-call notification systems;

(5) public information and education;

(6) participation in one-call notification systems; or

(7) compliance and enforcement under the State one-call notification program.

In making grants under this section, the Secretary shall take into consideration the commitment of each State to improving its State one-call notification program, including legislative and regulatory actions taken by the State after the date of enactment of this chapter.

A State may provide funds received under this section directly to any one-call notification system in such State that substantially adopts the best practices identified under section 6105.

(Added Pub. L. 105–178, title VII, § 7302(a), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 482.)