Reynolds preserves Iowa’s energy security

On May 14, the state legislature passed a bill that would have spelled disaster for Iowa’s economic growth. HF 639 was advertised as a bill to protect landowners from property rights infringement abuse. In reality, this legislation would have made Iowa’s future economic growth impossible.

While HF 639’s proponents claimed the bill targeted a specific type of pipeline, these regulations would have impacted all pipelines transporting liquid fuels across Iowa. The unreasonable burdens on pipeline projects would likely have led to increased construction costs and considerable delays in project timelines. This could have limited operators’ willingness to invest and do business in the state.

Liquid energy pipelines are vital to Iowa’s agricultural sector, which is one of the most efficient and productive in the world. Farmers rely on reliable fuel delivery to power their homes and equipment. Iowans use pipelines every day to heat their homes, cook family meals, power their appliances, and drive their kids to football practice. They are vital to our food processing, materials manufacturing, power generation, and heavy machinery industries.

Thankfully, Iowa is blessed to have a pro-energy leader in Gov. Kim Reynolds. Gov. Reynolds’ veto of HF 639 prevented a harmful law that would have obstructed Iowa’s future economic and energy development. Affordable and reliable energy infrastructure with consistent regulations is needed to continue to power Iowa’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

Thank you, Gov. Reynolds, for vetoing HF 639 and helping to ensure that Iowa’s low cost of living, Main Street economic vitality and attractive business climate are preserved.

Mike Karbo

Director, Midwest Region

American Petroleum Institute