IA HF491

Defines "common carrier" for eminent domain purposes as a commercial enterprise that transports goods or passengers for hire as a public employment, serving all persons indifferently within its capacity

Requires hazardous liquid pipeline carriers seeking common carrier status to prove by clear and convincing evidence they will transport commodities for unaffiliated shippers who retain ownership or sell to parties other than the carrier

Raises the evidentiary standard for pipeline companies using eminent domain under Chapter 479B from preponderance of the evidence to clear and convincing evidence to prove public use, purpose, or improvement

Prohibits pipeline companies from exercising eminent domain rights unless they qualify as a common carrier under the new definition

Takes effect immediately upon enactment and applies to condemnation proceedings filed on or after the effective date