SB 3343

Abstract

Amends the Public Utilities Act. Provides that the rules of the Illinois Commerce Commission may include specific options for expediting the issuance of those permits and licenses that are necessary for the construction of energy infrastructure, where such construction is subject to the Commission's jurisdiction. Provides that the rules may provide that in the event that an applicant elects to use an option provided for in the rules that (i) the applicant must request the use of the expedited process at the time of filing its application for a license or permit with the Commission; (ii) the Commission may engage the experts and procure those additional resources that are reasonably necessary for implementing the expedited process; and (iii) the applicant must bear any additional costs incurred by the Commission as a result of the applicant's use of the expedited process. Provides that a common carrier by pipeline that requests and receives a certificate of good standing that is related to the proposed construction of a pipeline or other facility under specified provisions may enter upon, take, or damage private property in the manner provided for by the law of eminent domain. Changes provisions that provide that in its determination of public convenience and necessity for a proposed pipeline or facility designed or intended to transport crude oil, gas, or ethanol and any alternate locations for such proposed pipeline or facility, the Commission shall consider, but not be limited to, specified factors. Amends the Eminent Domain Act to include provisions from the Public Utilities Act in provisions concerning the express grants of the power to acquire property by condemnation or eminent domain. Effective July 1, 2010.