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.
The bill introduces new obligations for companies regarding communication and negotiation with landowners. Notably, companies are prohibited from contacting landowners without obtaining prior written consent. Furthermore, the bill mandates that construction and operations be conducted under stricter liability provisions, holding companies accountable for damages resulting from their actions, including environmental disasters. These changes aim to empower landowners and ensure they are adequately notified and protected during such significant infrastructure projects.
Senate File 346 focuses on applications for permits relating to the construction of electric transmission lines, pipelines, and hazardous liquid storage facilities in Iowa. A central element of the bill is the modification of eminent domain rights, requiring that at least two-thirds of affected parcels and at least two-thirds of the area of the proposed project be acquired through voluntary easements before the state can grant eminent domain rights to a company. This marks a significant shift in how land can be acquired for utility projects, strengthening protections for landowners against involuntary takings.
While proponents of SF346 argue that it protects the rights of landowners and ensures fair treatment in the context of utility projects, opponents express concerns that the bill's restrictions on eminent domain could hinder the construction of necessary infrastructure. They argue that stricter limitations on land acquisition could delay or even prevent important developments in energy and utility services, impacting economic growth initiatives in the state. Additionally, there may be frustration from utility companies who feel that the new measures complicate their ability to efficiently manage and expand their operations.
The bill also emphasizes the importance of land restoration following construction. It includes provisions that require companies to adopt specific land restoration plans to remedy any damages caused during construction. Companies are responsible for creating detailed plans, which must be shared with affected landowners. Local counties are empowered to inspect compliance with these plans, adding a layer of oversight to ensure that restoration efforts are undertaken appropriately.