This bill amends existing laws regarding the use of eminent domain by prohibiting private entities and public utilities from utilizing this power to place intrastate pipelines for the purpose of conveying carbon dioxide related to carbon capture, utilization, or storage. Specifically, it introduces a new subsection (b) to W.S. 1-26-814, stating that no entity or public utility, as defined by W.S. 37-1-101(a)(vi), shall use eminent domain for these purposes. Additionally, it makes conforming amendments to W.S. 1-26-815, clarifying that the right of eminent domain for other purposes remains intact, except as specified in the new subsection.

The bill specifies that these provisions will apply to carbon capture, utilization, and storage projects initiated on or after July 1, 2025, and it establishes an effective date for the act as July 1, 2025. This legislative change aims to restrict the use of eminent domain in the context of carbon dioxide pipelines, reflecting a shift in policy regarding environmental and land use considerations in Wyoming.

Statutes affected:
25LSO-0312 v0.5: 1-26-814, 1-26-815