Relating to specified utility construction project requirements, establishing an interim study committee, and including effective date and applicability provisions

This bill relates to easement requirements for utilities and landowner rights regarding pipeline construction. The bill provides that the Iowa utilities board (board) shall not issue a permit for a liquefied carbon dioxide pipeline until the federal pipeline and hazardous materials safety administration provides new rules updating the safety standards for liquefied carbon dioxide pipelines. The bill also provides that the board shall not grant a permit to construct a liquefied carbon dioxide pipeline unless the permit is conditioned upon the pipeline company obtaining all other applicable permits, including federal and state regulatory permits, state and local highway and road crossing permits, and local zoning permits. The bill requires a liquefied carbon dioxide pipeline company seeking to use eminent domain to first acquire at least percent of the affected route miles through voluntary easements or through preexisting easements. The bill prohibits the board from granting a liquefied carbon dioxide pipeline company the right of eminent domain for an interstate hazardous liquid pipeline project unless the company first acquires all applicable pipeline construction and zoning permits from the other states the project will be constructed in. The company shall submit regular progress reports regarding easement acquisition as determined by the board within the utilities division of the department of commerce. The bill allows a landowner to file a complaint with the board and to notify the relevant county board of supervisors of a violation of land restoration standards.20 to include a farm tenant.29 to include soil compaction, damage to soil or water conservation structures, and damage to irrigation or drainage systems, and adds “farm tenant” to the definition of landowner. The bill expands the claims a landowner can bring and receive compensation for to include any identifiable compensable loss resulting from pipeline activity.29.29. The bill takes effect upon enactment. The bill applies retroactively to all applications for a permit to construct a pipeline pursuant to Code chapter 479B filed with the board on or after July 1, 2021. The bill applies to permits issued by the board on or after the effective date of the bill.