As legislators prepare to call it quits for 2007, we hope they don’t overlook an important bill sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Paton, a Tucson Republican.

HB 2020 would require railroads to go through the same type of hearing that other utilities face before exercising the power of eminent domain. However, because of federal authority, the state’s power would be limited.

The issue arose after Union Pacific said it plans to build a major rail yard near Picacho Peak. The yard would be over an aquifer, near a historic site and across the highway from Picacho Peak State Park.

Under Paton’s bill, the railroad would have to go before the Arizona Corporation Commission and explain what alternatives have been explored.

The ACC would hold a hearing similar to those for electric, natural gas or other utilities.

But because railroads are under federal oversight, the ACC couldn’t stop the project. However, the hearing would shine a light on the proposals.

This is a reasonable process to require of railroads, which have vast authority to operate on public land. The Legislature should pass HB 2020.

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