Bill > SB266

This bill modifies existing Kansas law regarding electric transmission lines by introducing a new requirement for legislative approval of high-impact electric transmission lines. The bill defines a "high-impact electric transmission line" as a line at least 10 miles long that transfers 340 kilovolts or more of electricity, which is a more stringent classification than the previous definition. Under the new provisions, electric utilities must not only obtain a siting permit from the state corporation commission but also receive legislative approval before constructing such high-impact lines. The approval process requires the electric utility to submit a detailed written notice to the legislature within 30 days of receiving a siting permit, including information about the proposed line's location, route, purpose, and supporting documentation. Legislative approval is granted through the adoption of a concurrent resolution, and failure to adopt such a resolution within a specific timeframe does not automatically deny approval. This bill effectively gives the state legislature an additional layer of oversight in the development of large-scale electric transmission infrastructure, potentially allowing for more public input and strategic energy planning.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Federal and State Affairs (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb266/