PIERRE, S.D.(HubCityRadio)- On Friday, the South Dakota House Commerce & Energy Committee address HB1079.  HB1079 dealt with landowners right to not allow companies to survey on their properties without approval by the landowner or the PUC.

The prime sponsor was District 23 Representative Scott Moore.

McPherson County landowner Mark Lapka explains why this bill was needed.

Jeremiah Murphy, lobbyist representing the landowners explains the reason this bill was needed because laws are not being followed.

Members of the energy industries in the state expressed opposition to the bill.  Sam Nelson with Missouri River Energy Services:

Moore stated that most energy services abide by the law.  This bill isn’t designed to stop projects from happening.

Lobbyist for Summit Carbon Solutions, Justin Bell talks about their opposition to the bill.

Member of the committee, Representative Carl Perry ask how power companies work with landowners.

Another member of the committee, Representative Steve Duffy feels this bill will impact more than just the pipelines.

Representatives Byron Callies moved to send this to the 41st day effectively killing the bill.  Representative Pinnow seconded the motion & both explained why they were opposed to the bill.

The motion to send it to the 41st day was approved on a 8-4 vote.

Also included in this story is video reaction of McPherson County landowner Mark Lapka via Austin Goss of the Dakota Scout.