HF 736: Relating to the installation of transmission lines on highway rights-of-way

What it does

This bill relates to the installation of transmission lines on highway rights-of-way. Under current law, the general assembly encourages proactive coordination between the department of transportation (DOT), local governments, utility companies, and other affected parties to minimize costs and avoid relocating utilities during highway construction. Affected parties are invited to participate in development meetings. However, failure to participate during the design phase does not prevent a construction project from moving forward.

House subcommittee · named January 12, 2026

• Rep. Shannon Latham (R) · shannon.latham@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Larry McBurney (D) · larry.mcburney@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Hans C. Wilz (R) · hans.wilz@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 14 for, 0 against

For: BlueGreen Alliance; Center for Rural Affairs; Environmental Law and Policy Center; Great Plains Institute; IBEW Iowa State Conference; Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives; Iowa Business for Clean Energy; Iowa Cattlemen's Association; Iowa Conservative Energy Forum; Iowa Environmental Council; LS Power Grid Midcontinent, LLC; MidAmerican Energy Company; and 2 more

In plain words

1. March 5, 2025Filed in the House and sent to the Commerce committee
2. January 12, 2026House subcommittee named: Latham, McBurney, Wilz and H
3. January 15, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it with changes
4. January 28, 2026Approved by the House committee
5. January 28, 2026Committee vote: 22–0
6. January 30, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2228
7. March 9, 2026Withdrawn