Provides for pipeline disclosures and registrations
Impact
By institutionalizing a declaration of rights for landowners, HB 1281 significantly impacts how pipeline projects are regulated in Louisiana. It formalizes the procedures and obligations of companies that may need to obtain land for pipeline construction, making it clear what rights landowners have and emphasizing their right to be informed about the processes that affect their properties. The establishment of a public registry is intended to empower landowners by providing them with direct access to information about which entities have the authority to expropriate their land.
Summary
House Bill 1281 seeks to enhance the rights of landowners when it comes to expropriation or condemnation for the purpose of constructing and operating pipelines that transport hydrocarbons or inject carbon dioxide for underground storage. The bill mandates that the commissioner of conservation create a written declaration of landowner rights, which must include specifics about the expropriation process, the obligations of the acquiring entities, and the landowner's rights to compensation, trial, and appeal. Additionally, it establishes a public registry of entities with expropriation and condemnation authority, aimed at increasing transparency and accessibility for affected landowners.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 1281 appeared to be generally supportive among lawmakers who champion landowner rights and transparency in the expropriation process. Advocates for the bill argued that it would provide necessary protections and ensure that landowners are well-informed about their rights and the processes affecting their property. However, there may also be concerns from pipeline companies regarding the additional regulatory requirements and potential delays in the project timelines, highlighting a balance that needs to be struck between landowner rights and the industry's operational capacity.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1281 include the potential for increased costs and bureaucratic hurdles for pipeline companies, which could slow down critical energy projects. Industry representatives may express concerns that these regulations could lead to complications in securing land for projects, thereby impacting energy supply dynamics. Additionally, the extent of transparency required could ignite debates about the appropriate level of regulatory oversight versus the need for efficient project execution, creating a space for diverse opinions on the balance between regulation and economic development.
Requests the office of conservation, in conjunction with the Public Service Commission, to study landowner's rights concerning expropriation or condemnation for the purpose of construction and operation of pipelines transporting any form of hydrocarbon in a liquid or gaseous state.
Provides that abandonment of interstate pipeline segments located wholly in Louisiana are considered intrastate pipelines and are handled under the regulations of the Louisiana Public Service Commission. (gov sig)
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, providing fees, and including effective date and applicability provisions.