May 5, 2022 - The Missouri Senate worked through the night last night and early this morning and finally arrived at a compromise on a bill that has been proposed for the last several years regarding the use of eminent domain by utility companies.
Associated Industries of Missouri opposed the original eminent domain language as it would have potentially impaired construction of the Grain Belt wind energy DC line across northern Missouri. The project would provide low-cost renewable wind-generated electricity to commercial and residential customers in 39 cities in Missouri.
The compromise was finally passed by the Senate this morning around 5:30 a.m. It would allow the project to proceed and establish rules for the use of eminent domain for utility projects in the future. AIM is satisfied the language will not impede construction of the Grain Belt line, but remains concerned about the impact the new rules would have on future utility projects by other utilities.
“Energy affordability and reliability are essential to a strong business climate," said Ray McCarty, president and CEO of Associated Industries of Missouri. "We are fortunate to have available in Grain Belt Express an opportunity to lower energy costs for Missourians and modernize our energy grid to power future growth.”
The bill is HB 2005, sponsored by Rep. Mike Haffner and handled in the Senate by Sen. Jason Bean. The bill faces one more vote in the Missouri House. The House may accept the changes or send the bill to conference. The session ends next Friday, May 13, at 6:00 p.m.
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