Many are still discussing the decision last week by Governor Kim Reynolds to veto House File 639, which would have put new restrictions on companies like Summit Carbon Solutions who want to construct pipelines in Iowa.
This is Franklin County Board of Supervisors Chairman Chris Vanness.
“I was disappointed. I think it sets a precedence with this use of eminent domain and having the Iowa Utilities Commission determine that. You know, a lot of people argue this is a private company, private gain. Well, does that mean wind turbines, solar, and these maybe going forward could argue this point too that they could use eminent domain on our projects.”
Vanness tells RadioOnTheGo News that Franklin County is still working with other counties on the proposed Summit pipeline.
“There’s like eight counties that have joined together and we’ve challenged the language the Iowa Utility Commission has given for use of eminent domain, and that’s still ongoing. So we’ll see where it goes from here. The other thing is, you know, South Dakota still has in place, it’s kind of blocking or slowing the use of eminent domain there. So this could very well kill the project too. Or I’ve also heard at the federal level where some of these green energy projects and stuff may loose funding.”
There have been some who would like to see a special legislative session held in an attempt to override the governor’s veto, but the chances of having a special session look low.
