The bill amends K.S.A. 66-1,178 and K.S.A. 66-1,180, establishing new requirements for electric utilities seeking to construct electric transmission lines. It mandates that utilities must obtain a siting permit from the commission before beginning site preparation or construction. The application for the permit must include details such as the proposed location of the transmission line, the names and addresses of affected landowners, and evidence that the project was competitively bid if costs are to be recovered through a regional transmission organization. The commission is required to hold a public hearing within 90 days of the application and issue a final order within a specified timeframe.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that all hearings must comply with the Kansas administrative procedure act and be completed within 30 days unless a continuance is requested by the utility. The commission is prohibited from issuing permits for lines with costs recovered through a regional organization unless it confirms that the bidding process was fair and that the lowest reasonable bid was selected. The commission's decision will consider the benefits to consumers both in Kansas and beyond, as well as economic development in the state. The bill also repeals the existing K.S.A. 66-1,178 and K.S.A. 66-1,180, indicating a significant overhaul of the regulatory framework governing electric transmission line construction.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 66-1