Iowa House Bill HF238

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/23
• Refer: 2/8/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to hazardous liquid pipelines transporting liquefied carbon dioxide.

Impact

The removal of liquefied carbon dioxide from the hazardous liquids definition indicates a shift towards potentially easing regulatory burdens associated with CO2 pipeline projects. By categorizing CO2 differently, the bill may encourage the development and installation of such pipelines, which are crucial for carbon capture initiatives. This could have implications for energy policy and environmental regulations in Iowa, promoting opportunities for businesses involved in energy production and storage technologies.

Summary

House File 238 (HF238) is a legislative proposal concerning the regulation of hazardous liquid pipelines specifically addressing the transportation of liquefied carbon dioxide. The primary objective of the bill is to amend the existing definition of hazardous liquids in Iowa's Code by removing liquefied carbon dioxide from that definition. This change signifies a legislative effort to delineate the regulatory framework surrounding CO2 pipelines, a topic of increasing relevance due to growing concerns about greenhouse gas emissions and climate change mitigation strategies that involve carbon capture and storage.

Contention

While supporters of HF238 argue that the bill will facilitate the advancement of carbon management technologies and contribute to environmental goals, there are concerns regarding public safety and environmental protection. Critics may view this legislative change as a potential risk, fearing that it might undermine important safety regulations meant to protect communities from accidental leaks or issues associated with CO2 pipelines. The discussion around this bill highlights the ongoing tension between environmental initiatives and community safety, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and balanced regulatory frameworks.