The South Dakota Gazette now offers audio versions of articles using Instaread, though some words may be mispronounced. A significant development in South Dakota’s political landscape was the passage of a bill banning eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines. The Senate voted 23-12 in favor, sending the bill to Governor Larry Rhoden for his decision. Rhoden has not declared his position but emphasized the importance of protecting landowner rights.
The legislation aims to prevent carbon pipeline companies from acquiring land by eminent domain, a contentious issue among landowners. Supporters of the bill, such as Sen. Pischke and Sen. Lapka, argue against private companies taking land against the owner’s will. This move follows the proposed $9 billion pipeline by Summit Carbon Solutions, designed to transport carbon dioxide from ethanol plants to an underground storage site in North Dakota.
Summit Carbon Solutions expressed disappointment in the bill’s passage, stressing the project’s benefits for American energy dominance. The company has faced challenges in obtaining permits in South Dakota due to conflicts with local ordinances. Legislators Lapka and Lems, who ran for office due to their opposition to Summit’s potential use of eminent domain, continue to advocate for landowner rights.
While Summit has voluntary agreements with some landowners, it may need to resort to eminent domain to complete its project. The company’s eligibility to use eminent domain in South Dakota is currently being disputed in court. The project has received permits in other states but faces legal challenges in Nebraska. This news article is a collaboration between South Dakota Searchlight’s Seth Tupper and Makenzie Huber.
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