Public utilities: electric utilities; condemnation of property for transmission lines; allow for qualified transmission companies. Amends sec. 5 of 1923 PA 238 (MCL 486.255). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5538'26, HB 5540'26

HB 5539 amends Michigan's electric utility law to clarify when transmission companies can take private property for new power lines. It specifically allows independent transmission companies (those not tied to utilities) and affiliated companies (linked to utilities) to condemn property for transmission lines, but with two key limits: they cannot override existing private agreements for rights-of-way, and they cannot disrupt utility service to customers in an unreasonable way. If a dispute arises over service disruption, the Michigan Public Service Commission must review it within 180 days (up to 210 days if parties agree). The bill directly affects transmission companies, utilities, and landowners whose property may be needed for grid infrastructure.