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HF 657

A bill for an act relating to common carriers and including effective date and applicability provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Charley Thomson

Bill HF 657 restricts pipeline companies' use of eminent domain, requiring clear public benefit justification, thus protecting communities from unnecessary land acquisition.

Introduced, referred to Commerce.
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Bill Summary · HF 657

Summary of Bill HF 657

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HF 657
  • Title: A bill for an act relating to common carriers and including effective date and applicability provisions.
  • Status: Introduced, referred to Commerce.
  • Introduced Date: February 28, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Common carriers

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 657 aims to regulate the use of eminent domain by pipeline companies in relation to hazardous liquid pipelines and storage facilities. The bill seeks to ensure that any exercise of eminent domain by an acquiring agency is justified as serving a public use, purpose, or improvement.

Key Provisions

  1. Eminent Domain Requirements:

    • An acquiring agency must demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the use of eminent domain aligns with the definitions of public use, public purpose, or public improvement.

  2. Common Carrier Qualification:

    • Pipeline companies must qualify as common carriers to be vested with the right of eminent domain. This provision restricts the ability of non-qualifying companies to exercise eminent domain powers.

  3. Effective Date and Applicability:

    • The bill takes effect upon enactment and applies specifically to condemnation proceedings for which the application is filed on or after the effective date.

Impact

  • Pipeline Companies: The bill directly affects pipeline companies by imposing stricter criteria for exercising eminent domain, potentially limiting their ability to acquire land for pipeline projects unless they meet the common carrier designation.

  • Acquiring Agencies: Agencies seeking to use eminent domain for pipeline projects will face heightened scrutiny and must provide substantial evidence to justify their actions.

  • Public Interest: The bill aims to protect public interests by ensuring that eminent domain is only used when it serves a clear public benefit, thereby potentially reducing the number of projects that could be deemed unnecessary or harmful to communities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the Commerce Committee on February 28, 2025. Further legislative actions will determine its progression through the legislative process.

This summary provides an overview of HF 657, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on stakeholders involved in the regulation of common carriers and eminent domain practices.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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