Reporter Boyden in Boyden, Iowa

Gillette Proposes Oil Pipelines as Common Carriers

Senator Guy M. Gillette introduces a bill to prohibit interstate common carrier pipelines from carrying commodities they own or have an interest in. He argues it would lower petroleum transport costs, save Iowa residents at least $18 000 annually, and extend similar benefits to other states. He notes the Hepburn Act Commodities clause originally applied to pipelines but was limited to railroads in a conference compromise. The measure aims to compel pipelines to operate as true common carriers, reducing costs passed to consumers.