Federal Loan Support Terminated for Grain Belt Express Project

July 23, 2025

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MOFB President Garrett Hawkins issued the following statement following the DOE's termination of federal loan support for the Grain Belt Express transmission project:

"I commend the Department of Energy and the Trump Administration for its decision to terminate federal loan support for the Grain Belt Express transmission project. This move demonstrates a long-overdue recognition of the voices of rural communities who have consistently and clearly expressed their deep concerns about the project's impact on their land, livelihoods, and private property rights. I want to thank Senator Josh Hawley for taking up this fight and being a voice for us in Washington, D.C., and our Attorney General Andrew Bailey for asking the tough questions and holding this project accountable.

The Department's action reflects a more just and thoughtful approach to energy infrastructure - one that does not sacrifice rural America in the name of progress, but instead seeks solutions that are sustainable, respectful, and do not impede on the private property rights of landowners.

While there is still more work to be done, this is a win for responsible governance, for property rights, and for every community that has fought to be heard. This isn't just about one power line-it's about the dangerous precedent it sets for using eminent domain as a tool for corporate gain. If we would allow this, where does it end?"