South Dakota Farmers Union President express frustration with South Dakota legislature

SIOUX FALLS, S.D.(KELO)- They didn’t get what they were looking for in the regular session of the legislature…so they’re pushing for a special session.

CO-2 pipeline opponents appear to be fighting an uphill battle in their efforts to change the state’s eminent domain laws.

South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke says landowners feel abandoned by state officials.

The Freedom Caucus of the state legislature is among the groups calling for a special session to deal with the pipeline issues.

Now, a group of pipeline opponents is planning a rally for the Capitol Rotunda in Pierre Thursday, hoping it will add pressure to the calls for a special session.

The South Dakota Farmers Union says state officials have abandoned landowners.

It all involves the dispute over Carbon Capture pipelines that are planned for the region.

State Farmers Union President Doug Sombke says those companies are abusing farmers and landowners under the state’s eminent domain laws.

They want a special legislative session for lawmakers to consider changing eminent domain laws.

Farmers’ Union President Doug Sombke:

Senate Majority Leader Casey Crabtree of Madison says pipeline opponents are in the minority.

Right now it appears as though those calling for a special session are facing an uphill battle.