A bill for an act relating to requiring landowner approval for a pipeline company submitting a request for the right to exercise eminent domain and including effective date and applicability provisions.
Impact
The impact of SF104 resonates through state laws related to eminent domain and property rights. By mandating landowner consent, the bill seeks to shift the balance of power in favor of those whose land is affected by pipeline projects. This could lead to more equitable treatment of landowners who have often felt marginalized in such negotiations. Additionally, the bill could affect the timeline for pipeline projects, as companies must allocate time to secure the necessary approvals from landowners before proceeding with construction.
Summary
Senate File 104 (SF104) introduces a significant change to the process of granting eminent domain rights to pipeline companies in Iowa. The bill requires that before a pipeline company can exercise eminent domain, it must obtain approval from landowners who own at least 90% of the real estate parcels necessary for the project. This requirement aims to increase the power of landowners in negotiations and ensure that their concerns are taken into account during pipeline developments. The bill underscores the importance of local consent in state infrastructure projects.
Contention
While SF104 has been designed to protect landowner rights, it has sparked contention among various stakeholders. Proponents of the bill argue that enhancing landowner control over eminent domain is crucial for community interests and upholds property rights. Conversely, opponents, including some pipeline companies and industry advocates, argue that this additional requirement could delay essential energy infrastructure projects and may deter investments in the state's pipeline network. They fear that the high threshold for landowner approval could result in increased costs and operational hurdles for energy companies.
Application
SF104 stipulates that the provisions apply to pipeline companies that do not already hold a permit from the utilities board as of the bill's effective date. This means that any new pipeline project seeking eminent domain rights will need to adhere to the new regulation, potentially creating a precedent for future laws governing property rights and public utility expansions in Iowa.
Similar To
A bill for an act relating to requiring landowner approval for a pipeline company submitting a request for the right to exercise eminent domain and including effective date and applicability provisions.
A bill for an act relating to requiring landowner approval for a pipeline company submitting a request for the right to exercise eminent domain and including effective date and applicability provisions.
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, 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.