Streamlining Approval for Major Interstate Electric Transmission Lines.
This bill speeds up the approval process for large interstate power lines (over 1,000 MW) by granting the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) exclusive authority over their siting, overriding state jurisdiction. Crucially, it introduces significant new protections for affected landowners, including mandatory detailed notice, the right to select an appraiser, and provisions for the company to cover litigation costs if their initial compensation offer is too low. Citizens gain clearer rights and financial protections when facing eminent domain for these projects.
Key points
FERC gains exclusive federal authority to approve the location of major power lines crossing state borders, aiming to accelerate infrastructure projects.
Landowners affected by the project (including those living within 500 feet of the right-of-way) receive enhanced, mandatory written notice about potential eminent domain use.
New rules require companies to pay for an appraisal chosen by the landowner and cover the owner's legal costs if the final court compensation award exceeds 125% of the initial offer.
Expired
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