BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — An idea that was seeking to help the people of North Dakota pay the costs of legal fees didn't get the votes it needed today. Lawmakers were considering Senate Bill 2321, which hoped to help landowners pay for a qualified expert if they are facing a condemnation or if the ir land could be seized under eminent domain. That could apply as part of the ongoing effort to build a carbon dioxide pipeline through the state. Minot Area Community Foundation looks to grow endowments with Match Madness Right now, some developers can use the Natural Gas Act, which is a federal law that gives a developer the right to condemn or acquire land for a pipeline. "The full monetary equivalent of the property taken. But the focus is always on the value of the property itself," Rep. Pat Heinert said. "Not what the owner is spending to keep the property." "Probably until you've been subject to something like this, it doesn't really register, but our duty is to our citizens," Rep. SuAnn Olson said. "And this helps them protect their property." The bill failed Monday afternoon by a vote of 39-51. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less