Provide new statutory requirements for regulating linear transmission facilities, to allow counties to impose a surcharge on certain pipeline companies, and to establish a landowner bill of rights.
Impact
The implementation of SB201 is set to impact existing laws related to energy development and local governance. With this bill, counties are permitted to charge a surcharge of up to one dollar per linear foot of installed carbon dioxide pipeline. This revenue is intended to provide tax relief to property owners within the counties infrastructure impacted by these pipelines. Additionally, SB201 establishes a landowner bill of rights, ensuring that landowners are informed of their rights and maintain influence over the use of their property, which could foster better relationships between landowners and pipeline companies.
Summary
Senate Bill 201 (SB201) introduces new statutory requirements for regulating carbon dioxide transmission facilities and enables counties in South Dakota to impose a surcharge on pipeline companies. This bill is designed to create clearer guidelines for the construction and operation of linear transmission facilities, specifically targeting those carrying carbon dioxide. It aims to enhance oversight and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations while also incorporating protections for landowners who grant easements for pipeline installation.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB201 seems to reflect a cautious optimism among proponents who view it as a necessary step to balance the interests of pipeline operators and landowners. Supporters believe that the bill’s regulations will help prevent environmental degradation while ensuring that landowners are adequately compensated and informed. However, there remains a degree of concern about potential overreach by the state in overriding local governance, indicating a divide in views on the balance of power between state and local jurisdictions.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding SB201 include the degree of oversight the state will have over local governments and the financial implications for pipeline companies operating within county borders. Questions have been raised about whether the surcharge may deter investment in carbon infrastructure, thus impacting economic development. Furthermore, details regarding how revenues from the surcharges should be allocated could lead to disagreements among counties regarding the perceived fairness of tax relief distributions. This highlights a continuing dialogue about the balance between promoting infrastructural growth and protecting community interests.
Transfer a property tax relief program, to change income requirements for certain property tax relief programs, and to index certain income schedules to inflation.
Transmission facilities; installation of large wind energy, large solar energy, and battery energy storage systems; installation of light-mitigating technology systems; and prioritizing nuclear energy resources. (FE)