South Dakota senate panel backs ban on eminent domain for carbon pipelines
South Dakota lawmakers advanced a bill that would prohibit the use of eminent domain for carbon pipelines, a direct challenge to a multistate project by Summit Carbon Solutions.
Makenzie Huber reports for South Dakota Searchlight.
In short:
- The South Dakota Senate State Affairs Committee approved House Bill 1052, which bans eminent domain for carbon pipelines, sending it to the full Senate after the House already passed it.
- The bill responds to Summit Carbon Solutions’ proposed $9 billion pipeline, which would transport carbon dioxide from ethanol plants to underground storage in North Dakota.
- Opponents argue the bill threatens economic benefits and the ethanol industry, while supporters see it as a defense of property rights against corporate land seizures.
Key quote:
“Should eminent domain be a tool in my toolbelt used to enrich myself for my own wellbeing? I don’t think so.”
— Sen. Mark Lapka (R-Leola)
Why this matters:
The debate over carbon pipelines pits environmental goals against property rights. While carbon capture aims to reduce emissions, the use of eminent domain raises concerns about government-backed land seizures for private gain. Landowners fear losing control over their property, while industry leaders warn that blocking pipelines could hurt farmers and ethanol producers. The dispute in South Dakota reflects a broader national conversation about balancing energy policy, climate initiatives, and individual rights.
Read more: Trump administration cancels new carbon pipeline safety rules
