Bill > HF2227

This bill amends existing law to establish new requirements for the restoration of agricultural land after the initial construction of high-voltage electric transmission lines, defined as those with a capacity of 200 kilovolts or more approved on or after July 1, 2024, for regional cost allocation in a federally registered planning authority transmission plan. The bill mandates that electric transmission owners must repair damaged underground drain tiles, remove rocks larger than three inches from excavated land, deep till compacted agricultural land to alleviate soil compaction, and restore damaged soil conservation practices and structures to their original condition. It also requires the reestablishment of disturbed vegetation, including cover crops where appropriate, and the removal of temporary roads or field entrances unless otherwise agreed upon. The bill allows for the utilities commission to contract qualified individuals for inspections, with the cost paid by the electric transmission owner, and requires the commission to adopt rules to administer these restoration standards, which do not apply within city limits. Furthermore, electric transmission owners must designate a point of contact for inquiries and claims, and any petitioner for a transmission line franchise must submit a written land restoration plan to affected landowners. The bill also includes provisions for dispute resolution, potential civil penalties for non-compliance, and allows for waivers or alternative agreements if they meet or exceed the restoration standards, taking effect immediately upon enactment and applying retroactively to transmission lines approved on or after July 1, 2024.

Business and Industry

Commerce (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF2227