Legislature needs pipeline oversight: Do companies have eminent domain?
“If you think a pipeline transporting flammable natural gas liquids through Kentucky would be risky, consider a pipeline that’s transporting flammable natural gas liquids through Kentucky and is not paying for itself.
Or, worse, two NGL pipelines that aren’t paying for themselves.
The urgency of updating state laws to protect Kentucky’s interests was underscored by recent news that a second NGL pipeline is being planned through the state to compete with the proposed Bluegrass Pipeline.
The Public Service Commission — and by extension the public — would have a big role in decision-making if the pipelines were carrying fuel to heat homes or power electrical utilities.
But because the pipelines would be carrying products for use by private companies, state agencies have only a very limited role in the planning.
It’s disappointing that Gov. Steve Beshear did not take advantage of the special session that started Monday to fill this void in state law.”
Kentucky.com 20 August 2013.