The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding the factors considered by the Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee when issuing a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (CEC). Specifically, it would expand the factors to include the total character of the area, in addition to the existing consideration of the total environment. Furthermore, the bill would make technical changes to the language of the statute to enhance clarity and precision. Additionally, the bill would modify existing provisions related to compliance with local ordinances and regulations. It would clarify that any certificate granted by the committee must be conditioned on compliance with applicable ordinances, master plans, and regulations of this state, a county, or an incorporated city or town, while also allowing the committee to grant a certificate even if compliance is deemed unreasonably restrictive. The bill would also remove certain language regarding the negotiation of project labor agreements as a condition for project approval, thereby streamlining the approval process for construction projects.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 40-360.06