A bill for an act relating to merchant line franchise petition requirements.(See HF 714.)
Impact
The proposed law will have a notable impact on both property rights and the regulatory framework concerning utility construction in Iowa. By enforcing a three-year deadline for the approval of franchise petitions, the bill aims to minimize delays that can arise during the approval process, potentially making it easier for companies to move forward with project developments. This change may affect various stakeholders, including utility companies looking to expand infrastructure and residents concerned about property use, especially in cases where eminent domain is involved.
Summary
House Study Bill 246 (HSB246) addresses the requirements for merchant line franchise petitions within Iowa. According to the bill, if a petition for constructing an above-ground merchant line that involves the taking of property under eminent domain is not approved within three years by the Iowa utilities board, the board is mandated to reject the petition. This is a change from current law, which does not limit the approval timeframe specifically to above-ground merchant lines. The amendment seeks to streamline the process surrounding franchise petitions and establish clear timelines for both proposers and regulators, ensuring that there is an efficient decision-making process regarding these significant projects.
Contention
While the bill seeks to provide clarity and efficiency in utility project approvals, it may also ignite contention among various interest groups. Proponents argue that the bill would enhance the economic development of the state by facilitating necessary infrastructure projects without excessive delay. However, opponents may view the specified time limitation as a threat to local property rights, where individuals could lose their land without adequate recourse if a decision does not align with their interests. This argument underscores the balance between economic development and individual property rights, making it a potential point of debate within legislative circles.
Replaced by
A bill for an act relating to construction projects transporting electricity and water and including retroactive applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 246.) Effective date: 07/01/2023. Applicability date: 09/01/2020.
Replaced by
A bill for an act relating to merchant line franchise petition requirements and levee and drainage districts, and including retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly SSB 1217.)
A bill for an act relating to merchant line franchise petition requirements and levee and drainage districts, and including retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly SSB 1217.)
A bill for an act relating to construction projects transporting electricity and water and including retroactive applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 246.) Effective date: 07/01/2023. Applicability date: 09/01/2020.
A bill for an act relating to specified utility construction project requirements, and including effective date and applicability provisions.(See HF 565.)
A bill for an act relating to applications for permits to construct electric transmission lines, pipelines and underground storage facilities, and hazardous liquid pipelines, making penalties applicable, and including effective date and applicability provisions.
A bill for an act relating to specified utility construction project requirements, establishing an interim study committee, and including effective date and applicability provisions. (Formerly HF 368.)
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities.(Formerly HF 56; See HF 2101.)