Energy (Pipeline Infrastructure)

This bill (SSB 3063) streamlines the process for utility companies to install power lines along Iowa highways. It requires the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) to coordinate with utilities within 30 days of a written request, share highway project plans that might affect line placement, and cannot deny longitudinal line installations on highways unless safety or highway function is threatened. If denied, the DOT must publicly explain the reason within 90 days. The bill also limits utility right-of-way lease agreements to 20 years and specifies that lines must be installed parallel to roads without unnecessarily interfering with public highway use or land access. It directly affects utility companies, the DOT, and highway users.

SF 74 repeals a specific Iowa law (Section 479B.15) that previously allowed pipeline companies to enter private land for surveys related to hazardous liquid pipeline projects by providing landowners with 10 days' written notice. This bill removes the requirement for pipeline companies to notify landowners before conducting surveys on their property. It directly affects landowners whose property might be surveyed for pipeline projects and pipeline companies seeking survey access. The repeal takes immediate effect upon enactment, eliminating this specific access provision.

HF 736 requires Iowa's Department of Transportation (DOT) to coordinate with utility companies upon written request to identify highway corridors for transmission line installation, assigning a project coordinator within 30 days. It prohibits the DOT from denying longitudinal transmission lines along highways (including interstates) unless safety or highway function is threatened, and mandates public disclosure of denial reasons within 90 days. The bill also limits utility right-of-way lease agreements to 20 years (replacing prior "extended" terms) and updates construction standards to allow lines within highway rights-of-way alongside roads, railways, and streams, provided they don’t interfere with public use. This directly affects utility companies, the DOT, and highway planning processes.