Iowa regulators block Steve King’s efforts to join Summit carbon capture pipeline hearing

Iowa Regulators Block Steve King’s Participation in Carbon Capture Pipeline Hearing

The Iowa Utilities Board has denied former U.S. Rep. Steve King’s request to participate in a hearing regarding the permit for Summit Carbon Solutions’ $4.5 billion carbon capture pipeline project in Iowa. The board also denied King’s request for eminent domain power to acquire the necessary land for the project.

King, who represented northwest Iowa in Congress from 2003 to 2021, sought to intervene in the case due to concerns about the constitutionality of eminent domain. The board has granted other requests to intervene in the case.

Attorney Questions Definition of “Directly Impacted”

Summit Carbon Solutions plans to build a 690-mile pipeline across 30 Iowa counties to capture carbon dioxide from ethanol and other agricultural plants. The board has allowed participation from landowners directly impacted by the project.

Omaha attorney Brian Jorde, who filed requests for his clients to intervene, has asked the board to reconsider its decision. He argues that landowners who farm or live near the proposed pipeline should be considered directly impacted.

Safety Concerns and Environmental Impact

Some Iowans have raised concerns about the safety of the carbon capture pipeline. Carbon dioxide is heavier than air and can displace oxygen, potentially causing health issues or even death. Summit Carbon Solutions claims that the project will meet or exceed federal safety guidelines.

The pipeline project aims to reduce the carbon footprint of ethanol production in Iowa, which is the leading producer of ethanol in the country. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of promoting sustainable industrialization and combating climate change.

Landowners’ Frustration and Legal Action

The Iowa Utilities Board will decide whether Summit Carbon Solutions should receive a permit for the pipeline project and whether it qualifies for eminent domain powers. Landowners who have been denied participation in the hearing have five days to file additional information supporting their requests.

Steve King’s attorney, Anna Ryon, plans to file additional information in an attempt to include him in the hearing. King has threatened to file a federal lawsuit challenging the use of eminent domain for the project.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Indicator: The denial of former U.S. Rep. Steve King’s efforts to participate in the hearing raises questions about equal access to justice and the rule of law in the decision-making process.

2. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
   • Indicator: The article discusses the proposed carbon capture pipeline and its potential impact on carbon emissions, highlighting the need for climate change measures in infrastructure planning.

3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, particularly for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.
   • Indicator: The article does not directly address this target or provide indicators related to it.

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Source: desmoinesregister.com

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