Sturgis-Coldwater News

State Representative Jennifer Wortz has introduced House Bill 4526, aiming to provide property owners with fair opportunities to challenge eminent domain in the context of electric transmission lines. This proposal comes amid concerns from Branch County residents about a pending ITC Holdings project.

"State government must always protect the people’s fundamental rights — including property rights," Wortz stated. The representative highlighted community worries regarding the proposed power line's impact on local farms and homes.

The ITC Helix-Hiple transmission line is planned to stretch 55 miles from Gilead Township at the Michigan-Indiana border through Branch County to Calhoun County's Helix Substation. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is set to decide on this project by summer. Approval would enable state eminent domain powers for land acquisition necessary for the line.

Currently, while property owners can contest eminent domain in court, MPSC decisions are binding regarding public necessity for such projects. Wortz’s bill seeks to change this by requiring transmission companies to prove that their chosen route is most reasonable, focusing on minimizing interference with private properties.

Wortz emphasized, "When a company seeks to use government authority to lay a power line through private property, the eminent domain request shouldn’t just get rubberstamped." She believes her plan will ensure clear standards and a fair process for property owners.

House Bill 4526 has been referred to the House Committee on Energy for further consideration.