Rep. Peter DeFazio introduced a bill to stop energy developers from using eminent domain to seize private property for liquefied natural gas pipelines.
Rep. Peter DeFazio introduced a bill to stop energy developers from using eminent domain to seize private property for liquefied natural gas pipelines.
In introducing the bill on Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Ore., noted the U.S. Constitution limits the use of eminent domain to actions necessary for “public use” but said that pipelines such as the one proposed from Malin to a proposed LNG terminal in Coos Bay fails that test. Instead, it would boost corporate profits while increasing domestic energy costs, he said.
“The Constitution is quite clear: The government can only authorize the use of eminent domain if the action serves the public,” DeFazio said in a prepared statement.
“Landowners should not be forced to give up their property so private companies and foreign manufacturers can ship low-cost natural gas overseas and spike energy prices here at home,” he added.
Read more at The Mail-Tribune.
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