ST. PAUL, MN – Last week, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed an Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture omnibus bill that included a provision authored by Rep. David Bly (DFL—Northfield) that strengthens Minnesota’s ‘Buy the Farm’ law, which requires utility companies to buy land from farmers to clear the way for high-voltage transmission projects.
“This is a victory for Minnesota landowners who have been facing lots of economic uncertainty over the past few years as the CapX2020 project ramps up,” said Rep. Bly. “The provision in our omnibus bill protects Minnesotans’ livelihoods and makes sure they are treated fairly.”
Specifically, Rep. Bly’s provision calls for utilities to pay relocation costs, compensation, and also requires them to file challenges to a claim within 60 days to prevent stalling.
“I’ve heard from lots of landowners who say the current law is not working,” added Rep. Bly. “There’s clear frustration in the community. The reforms in this provision will help the growing number of Minnesotans filing claims due to the ongoing CapX2020 project.”
The House Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture omnibus bill will go to a conference committee with the Minnesota Senate’s version of the bill. Differences between the two pieces of legislation will be ironed out before a final package goes to Governor Dayton’s desk.