North Dakota Ends Legal Challenge to South Dakota Carbon Pipeline Eminent Domain Ban

North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley announced he will not pursue legal action against South Dakota over its new law banning the use of eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines, concluding that no legal avenue exists for a lawsuit. The law, signed by South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden, prevents companies like Summit Carbon Solutions from forcing landowners to grant pipeline access, effectively blocking a multi-state carbon capture pipeline that would run through South Dakota to western North Dakota. Wrigley had previously criticized the law as a hostile act against North Dakota and a bad policy choice, but ultimately decided against litigation. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley praised Wrigley's decision and highlighted the importance of protecting private property rights, emphasizing that the law reflects the will of South Dakota voters and lawmakers. The ruling provides relief to South Dakota landowners opposed to the pipeline, as the legislation significantly hampers Summit Carbon Solutions' project, which has already faced permit denials in South Dakota despite approvals in North Dakota. The dispute underscores the ongoing tensions between states over carbon pipeline infrastructure and property rights.