PIERRE, S.D. (SDBA) — A resolution highlighting security concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines failed in the Senate Commerce and Energy Committee on a 5-4 vote Thursday.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 606, sponsored by Sen. Lauren Nelson, R-Yankton, would have expressed legislative concerns about potential terrorist threats to proposed carbon dioxide pipelines.
“District 18 voters’ concerns about carbon pipelines placed me here speaking before you as a state senator,” Nelson said. “I feel that presenting this resolution is voicing their worries.”
Nelson cited Department of Energy forecasts showing potential U.S. carbon dioxide pipeline network expansion, with approximately 700 miles proposed in South Dakota.
Trevor Jones, representing Summit Carbon Solutions, opposed the measure, citing the safety record of existing pipelines.
“Pipelines are the safest way to transport any substance,” Jones said. “Although CO2 pipelines are new to South Dakota and corn country of the Midwest, they’re not new to the United States.”
The amended resolution focused on raising awareness after removing language directing the Public Utilities Commission to conduct risk assessments.
Sen. Joy Hohn, R-Hartford, moved for a do-pass recommendation, citing unfinalized federal regulations.
“PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration) has not come up with their new regulations on carbon pipelines yet,” Hohn said. “We do need to have this awareness out there.”
Sen. Steve Kolbeck, R-Sioux Falls, citing his experience as a former PUC chair, supported deferral. “The Public Utilities Commission, of course, they worry about it. Of course, they lose sleep over these things,” Kolbeck said.
The substitute motion failed 4-5, followed by a successful motion to defer to the 41st day, effectively killing the measure.
Had it passed, the measure would not have had the force of law.
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