This bill introduces new regulations for hazardous liquid pipeline easements in Iowa, emphasizing the need for pipeline companies to exhaust all reasonable alternatives before seeking eminent domain rights. It mandates that companies must first attempt to secure voluntary easements from landowners and provides detailed requirements for the information that must be shared with landowners, including a template easement, valuation methodology, and damage claims policy. The bill also allows for public comments on these documents, which must be addressed by the commission, and permits negotiations with landowners after an informational meeting, even if prior notice was not given. An opt-out procedure is included for landowners who wish to decline further communication regarding easement negotiations.

Additionally, the legislation requires pipeline companies to conduct civil surveys to assess land suitability and to notify landowners and the commission if the land is deemed unsuitable. If suitable, companies have 90 business days to make a written offer for the easement and must execute contracts for voluntary easements within one year. The bill also ensures confidentiality regarding data from unsuccessful negotiations and requires companies to demonstrate diligent efforts in pursuing voluntary easements before seeking eminent domain. The commission has the authority to extend compliance deadlines for good cause, and the bill takes effect upon enactment, applying retroactively to certain pipeline projects initiated after specified dates.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 479B.2, 479B.4, 479B.16