South Dakota governor signs bill banning eminent domain for carbon pipeline

(UI) — South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden has signed HB 1052 into law, protecting landowners' property rights by prohibiting the use of eminent domain for pipelines transporting carbon oxide.

The bill aims to address concerns over landowner rights while still allowing voluntary easements for the project to proceed. The letter can be accessed here.

In a letter to the South Dakota legislature and residents, Governor Rhoden explained the rationale behind his decision: "HB 1052 does not kill the proposed project. Rather than viewing this legislation as an obstacle to the proposed project, I encourage Summit and others to view it as an opportunity for a needed reset. Voluntary easements for this proposed project will still be able to move forward… Without the threat of eminent domain, the opportunity might finally be available for trust to be rebuilt and for more productive conversations to occur between Summit and South Dakota landowners."

Governor Rhoden, who has long championed property rights, emphasized his commitment to protecting private landowners. "I’ve fought for private property rights in this Capitol for over 20 years," he said. "We are keeping South Dakota Open for Opportunity, and HB 1052 will not change that. The ethanol industry will remain a crucial part of our state’s economy and a key asset as we implement an all-of-the-above energy approach to restore American energy dominance."

Governor Rhoden has signed 58 bills into law this legislative session.

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