News

Emotional farmer testimony in support of SB 508

Several Missouri farmers who would be directly affected by a wind power line project through their farms gave emotional testimony before a Missouri Senate committee this morning in favor of a bill that would shut it down, rescinding the power of eminent domain it was granted.

Robin Hinke, a teacher in Salisbury in Chariton County whose husband grows row crops and raises cattle, testified on behalf of their four children, “Our 10-year-old and eight-year-old already show signs of farming. They’re why we’re here (crying). They’re why I spent five hours preparing to drive to Jeff City today. We have fought this for eight years.”

Garrett Hawkins, president of the Missouri Farm Bureau, says senate bill 508 would remove eminent domain power from the Grain Belt Express but does not prevent any power transmission project.

“The states of Arkansas and Iowa, recognizing eminent domain as a powerful tool, have taken steps to protect their landowners. We’re asking Missouri to do the same.”  

Opponents say the bill is unconstitutional since the Missouri Public Service Commission has already given the Grain Belt Express, led by Invenergy, regulatory approval.

The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association is leading a rally at the state capitol this afternoon in support of the bill.