The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding the Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee's authority to evaluate applications for transmission lines. Under the current law, the committee may approve or deny applications and impose reasonable conditions based on specific factors. The bill introduces new language allowing the committee to evaluate applications for proposed transmission lines by considering all relevant factors if they pertain to an electric generating unit related to or interconnected with the proposed line. This addition aims to broaden the scope of factors the committee can consider during its evaluations.

Additionally, the bill makes several technical and conforming changes to the existing statute. It clarifies that any certificate granted by the committee must comply with applicable local ordinances and regulations, while also allowing for exceptions if compliance is deemed unreasonably restrictive. The bill removes outdated provisions regarding labor agreements and emphasizes the committee's responsibility to consider environmental protections, particularly in areas with unique biological significance or habitats for endangered species. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the committee's evaluative capabilities while ensuring environmental and regulatory compliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 40-360.06