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Committee forwards energy-corridor amendments to better protect landowner rights
Summary
Senate Bill 61 (2nd substitute) was adopted and recommended unanimously. Sponsors said the bill aims to make eminent-domain processes for transmission lines more transparent and encourage use of existing federal corridors before private land is taken.
Senator Owens presented the second substitute to Senate Bill 61, titled Energy Corridor Amendments. The sponsor said the bill seeks a balance between the state's need for transmission and telecommunication infrastructure and protections for private landowners, particularly in a state with large federal landholdings. The substitute clarifies steps the utility should take before pursuing eminent domain, encourages use of existing federal corridors and adds a provision allowing utilities to acquire easements rather than fee simple title when appropriate.
Stakeholders provided mixed comments. Rocky Mountain Power (represented by Chris Blake) offered support for the approach, noting the bill's addition allowing easement acquisition reduces cost and helps ratepayers. Committee members emphasized that eminent domain remains available as a last resort to serve public needs but said the bill aims to increase transparency and require earlier notification to affected landowners and an infrastructure siting analysis before condemnation moves forward.
The committee adopted the second substitute and recommended SB 61 favorably to the Senate floor by unanimous vote.
