SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon lawmakers have approved a bill opposed by environmentalists that would make it easier to build new roads, transmission lines, pipelines or other so-called linear facilities.
The Senate approved the measure on a 20-9 vote Tuesday, sending it to Gov. John Kitzhaber. Environmentalists fear that the measure would make it easier to build a liquefied natural gas pipeline. Other opponents say it hinders property rights.
Oregon law allows landowners or people they authorize to apply for a permit to perform construction work through state waterways. The proposal backed Tuesday would allow developers to apply for a permit without a landowner’s permission.
Proponents say gas pipelines are a federal responsibility so the state legislation wouldn’t affect them. An attempt to keep gas pipelines out of the bill was rejected.
