After years of stalled debate, the Iowa Senate passed a bill that would make it significantly harder for carbon capture pipeline companies to use eminent domain to acquire land, according to Iowa Public Radio (IPR).
The vote followed growing pushback from landowners, particularly those opposed to Summit Carbon Solutions’ proposed pipeline, and internal pressure from a group of 12 Republican senators who threatened to block state budget votes without action on the issue.
The legislation introduces stricter criteria for companies to qualify for eminent domain, including proof that the pipeline will serve unaffiliated third-party shippers. It also requires stronger evidence that the project serves a public use and mandates enhanced insurance protections for impacted landowners. Carbon pipelines would be capped at 25 years of operation, and the Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) would face new transparency and procedural requirements.
IPR reported that supporters of the bill argued it strengthens landowner rights without outright banning carbon pipelines. Opponents, including industry groups, warned that the bill could effectively derail projects by making permitting economically unfeasible. Attempts to amend the bill with a full ban on eminent domain for carbon pipelines were rejected.
While the bill stops short of an outright prohibition, critics like Hardin County landowner Kathy Stockdale say it doesn’t go far enough to safeguard property rights. Meanwhile, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association urged the governor to veto the bill, citing potential damage to ethanol market growth and carbon capture development.
