Iowa HF657 amends eminent domain law to redefine common carriers and restrict eminent domain rights for pipeline companies.

Iowa HF657 redefines a common carrier as a commercial enterprise transporting goods or passengers for hire, excluding those transporting liquefied carbon dioxide. It mandates that pipeline companies must qualify as common carriers to exercise eminent domain rights. The bill also shifts the burden of proof to acquiring agencies to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that eminent domain meets public use, purpose, or improvement definitions. The changes apply to condemnation proceedings filed after the bill's enactment.

Iowa HF657 amends eminent domain law to redefine common carriers and restrict eminent domain rights for pipeline companies.

Iowa HF657 redefines a common carrier as a commercial enterprise transporting goods or passengers for hire, excluding those transporting liquefied carbon dioxide. It mandates that pipeline companies must qualify as common carriers to exercise eminent domain rights. The bill also shifts the burden of proof to acquiring agencies to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that eminent domain meets public use, purpose, or improvement definitions. The changes apply to condemnation proceedings filed after the bill's enactment.