By RYAN SKAITH
House Majority Leader Bobby Kaufmann says there is a high level of interest among House Republicans to protect landowners from having their property seized for Summit Carbon Solutions’ proposed carbon pipeline.
Kaufmann expressed sharp criticism of Governor Kim Reynolds’ decision six months ago to veto a bill that would have restricted the use of eminent domain for pipelines and other utility infrastructure. While Kaufmann personally favors a strict law similar to South Dakota’s—which bars the use of eminent domain for carbon pipelines—he noted that his new role as House floor leader requires him to poll the caucus to see what specific measures the majority can support.
Legislative alternatives are already emerging. Republican Leader Mike Klimesh announced plans to introduce a bill creating a 10-mile “buffer zone” around proposed utility routes. This measure is intended to force developers to find alternative paths that bypass properties owned by residents who are unwilling to participate in the project.
The urgency of the debate is echoed across the aisle. The Senate’s Democratic Leader warned that the pipeline controversy could stall the state’s broader legislative agenda, suggesting it will be difficult for lawmakers to focus on other priorities if the policy isn’t resolved early in the 2026 session.
