The bill establishes new regulations regarding the exercise of eminent domain specifically for energy collector systems associated with commercial electricity generation facilities. It introduces two new sections, W.S. 1-26-715 and 1-26-818, which outline the compensation standards for condemned property and the requirements for exercising the power of condemnation. Key provisions include the necessity for land use and compensation agreements with at least 85% of landowners before condemnation can occur, as well as the requirement to provide proof of compliance with these agreements in court. The bill also specifies that compensation for condemned land must be equivalent to the average consideration given to other landowners or the fair market value if there are two or fewer landowners involved.

Additionally, the bill makes conforming amendments to existing laws, including the repeal of a previous provision in W.S. 1-26-815(d) and updates to definitions and compensation standards in W.S. 1-26-502 and 1-26-701. It clarifies that certain entities, such as public utilities with a certificate of public convenience and necessity, are exempt from these new requirements. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, and applies to all eminent domain actions initiated on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 1-26-502, 1-26-701, 1-26-815, 34-27-105