Land restoration requirement for interstate oil pipelines passes

Pipeline companies are responsible for restoring land disturbed during the construction or operation of an interstate oil pipeline under a bill passed by the Legislature May 26.

Restoration costs covered in LB629, introduced by Cedar Rapids Sen. Kate Sullivan, include those incurred to rehabilitate real and personal property, natural resources, wildlife and vegetation.

The bill also permits local governments and state agencies to pursue compensation from a pipeline company to pay for maintenance and repair of roads, bridges or other infrastructure affected by pipeline construction and operation.

Lawmakers approved LB629 on a 47-0 vote.