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2004 SESSION

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SB 663 Natural gas companies; right of entry upon property.

Introduced by: Frank W. Wagner | all patrons    ...    notes | add to my profiles | history

SUMMARY AS PASSED:

Natural gas companies; right of entry upon property. Allows interstate natural gas companies to enter upon property to make examinations, tests, land auger borings, appraisals and surveys without the written consent of the owner, if the companies seek the landowner's permission to inspect and give notice of intent to enter. In addition, such companies may use motor vehicles, self-propelled machinery, and power equipment on the property after receiving the landowner's permission. A company using the right of entry is liable for any actual damages resulting from its entry upon the land. The bill does not impair any rights of natural gas companies obtained by the power of condemnation, an easement granted by the landowner or his predecessor in title, or any other agreement between the natural gas company and the landowner or his predecessor in title.

SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:

Natural gas companies; right of entry upon property. Gives interstate natural gas companies the same limited right of entry for survey and study purposes that is granted to intrastate natural gas companies under existing law. A company must seek the landowner's permission by certified mail, and may enter the property only with landowner permission or, if permission is withheld, only after providing at least 15-days' notice by certified mail. A company using the right of entry is liable for any actual damages resulting from its entry upon the land. The bill does not authorize interstate natural gas companies to exercise the power of condemnation.