We are thrilled to share some fantastic news for landowners and advocates in South Dakota. A significant step forward has been achieved as a ballot question has been validated by the South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office for the upcoming November 5th general election. This ballot question will allow voters to decide on Senate Bill 201, a recently adopted state law concerning carbon dioxide pipeline restrictions and landowner rights.
**Strong Support and Public Involvement**
The validation of this ballot question demonstrates robust support from the community. A random sample of signatures revealed that an impressive 92% of the more than 34,000 signatures were from South Dakota registered voters. This translates to 31,432 valid signatures, far surpassing the 17,508 needed to qualify for the ballot.
With the question now on the ballot, the public has a crucial 30-day window to challenge the validity of the petition. This period is essential for ensuring the integrity of the process and allowing any concerns to be addressed.
**Senate Bill 201: Balancing Protections and Progress**
Senate Bill 201, approved by the Legislature and Governor Kristi Noem, aims to introduce new protections for local governments and landowners while maintaining a pathway for pipeline projects. Proponents argue that the legislation strikes a balance between necessary development and safeguarding community interests. However, opponents view the bill as a capitulation to pipeline companies, raising concerns about its long-term implications.
**The Context: Summit Carbon Solutions’ Pipeline Project**
The bill was introduced in response to Summit Carbon Solutions’ proposed $8.5 billion pipeline project. This ambitious project seeks to collect carbon dioxide from 57 ethanol plants in South Dakota and neighboring states and transport it to North Dakota for underground storage. The project has faced opposition due to concerns over property rights, safety, and health risks associated with potential leaks.
Summit Carbon Solutions has faced several regulatory hurdles. The Iowa Utilities Board approved their project in June, and the company plans to reapply for a permit in South Dakota this month after their initial application was denied last year. Additionally, their application in North Dakota is still under consideration, and they require an underground storage permit in the state.
**Historical Context and Community Impact**
This is not the first time South Dakota voters have had the opportunity to overturn legislation through a ballot question. The last referred law appeared on the ballot in 2016 when the state Legislature attempted to exempt workers under age 18 from receiving a minimum wage increase approved by voters in 2014. South Dakotans voted overwhelmingly (71.13%) to reject the Legislature’s action, demonstrating the power of the ballot in reflecting public sentiment.
**A Crucial Moment for South Dakota**
This upcoming vote represents a critical moment for ensuring that landowner rights and local government protections are upheld. By participating in the November 5th election, South Dakotans can have a direct impact on the future of land use and pipeline safety in their state.
We encourage everyone to stay informed, get engaged, and make their voices heard. Stay tuned for more updates and information on how you can get involved.