This bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to revoke the common carrier status of carbon dioxide transporters and to clarify the use of eminent domain in relation to carbon dioxide infrastructure. Specifically, it introduces a prohibition on the exercise of eminent domain for constructing infrastructure associated with carbon dioxide transport for disposal in geological storage or geological sequestration. Additionally, the bill updates definitions and provisions related to common pipeline carriers, removing references to carbon dioxide in various contexts, including transportation and discrimination clauses.

Furthermore, the bill repeals section 38-22-10, which previously addressed the exercise of public domain in geological storage of carbon dioxide. The amendments aim to streamline the legal framework surrounding the transportation of energy resources while explicitly excluding carbon dioxide from the common carrier and eminent domain provisions, reflecting a shift in policy regarding carbon dioxide management in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 32-15-02, 49-19-01, 49-19-11, 49-19-19, 38-22-10
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Mathern: 32-15-02, 49-19-01, 49-19-11, 49-19-19, 38-22-10
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 32-15-02, 49-19-01, 49-19-11, 49-19-19, 38-22-10