Kansas House Bill HB2148

Kansas 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/25
• Refer: 1/29/25

Caption

Prohibiting the permitting and siting of electric transmission lines within any area designated by the United States department of energy as a national interest electric transmission corridor.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2148 would significantly alter the regulatory landscape for electric utilities operating in Kansas. By prohibiting permits and limiting the use of eminent domain within designated national interest corridors, the bill would minimize the ability of utilities to expand their infrastructure in these vital areas. This change is intended to curb potential conflicts between federal mandates and state regulations, as well as alleviate concerns among landowners regarding the involuntary acquisition of their properties for electric transmission development.

Summary

House Bill 2148 aims to prohibit the permitting and siting of electric transmission lines within any areas designated by the United States Department of Energy as national interest electric transmission corridors. The bill seeks to amend existing regulations surrounding electric utilities, specifically preventing them from obtaining transmission line siting permits within these federally designated regions. The primary goal of the bill is to maintain control over land use in these critical areas while also ensuring that the expansion of electric infrastructure aligns with state priorities.

Contention

The bill faces potential contention from various stakeholders, including electric utilities and environmental advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to protect local communities from unwanted infrastructure developments and to preserve agricultural and natural resources in these regions. However, opponents highlight the risk of limiting the infrastructure necessary to meet growing energy demands. The debate may center around finding a balance between local control over land use and ensuring adequate electric service provision, particularly as the energy sector undergoes significant transitions.