This bill amends K.S.A. 26-509 to require electric public utilities to pay the attorney fees of landowners when a court appeal results in a verdict favoring the landowner, specifically when the jury awards an amount greater than that determined by court-appointed appraisers. The bill clarifies that this requirement applies when the plaintiff condemner is an electric public utility, ensuring that landowners are compensated for legal costs in such cases.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 26-509, which previously included language that is now deleted, such as references to "landowners" and certain procedural amendments. The new legal language emphasizes the obligation of electric public utilities to cover attorney fees, thereby enhancing protections for landowners in eminent domain proceedings. The act will take effect upon its publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 26-509