Nebraska has 2 new pipeline laws - Keystone

[Dover]

LINCOLN — Unthinkable a couple of weeks ago, Nebraska now has laws that govern routing of crude-oil pipelines and an agreement from TransCanada Inc. to reroute its controversial Keystone XL pipeline.

State legislators gave final approval Tuesday morning to two bills governing pipeline routes on the final day of a special legislative session to address concerns about the Keystone XL's planned route across the state's groundwater-rich Sand Hills.

Gov. Dave Heineman signed both bills into law.

..//..

Nebraska agreed to set up a quicker, state environmental review of the new route and pay the $2 million cost if TransCanada agreed to reroute its pipeline around the Sand Hills. One bill sets up a review process for future pipeline routes, similar to a Montana routing law. ..cont'd

http://www.omaha.com/article/20111122/NEWS01/711229872#neb-has-2-new-pipeline-laws