Senate Committee Advances PIPELINE Safety Act, Hiking Fines and Boosting Emergency Alerts

DOT starts work to update rules on breakout tank inspections (risk-based option).

Operators of certain oil-related storage tanks may be allowed fewer internal inspections if they add extra monitoring and secondary containment to keep safety strong.

A new confidential voluntary pipeline safety information-sharing system (VIS) is created.

Companies and workers could share “near-miss” safety lessons without punishment, which can prevent accidents, but most shared details would not be public.

DOT issues rules clarifying safety requirements for idled (not currently used) pipelines.

If a pipeline is sitting unused, there should be clearer rules about maintenance and safety checks so it does not become a hidden risk.

PHMSA posts a public list of industry safety standards it uses and why.

If you’re trying to understand pipeline safety rules, it should be easier to see which standards are used and whether the public can read them for free during comment periods.

GAO reports on how the National Pipeline Mapping System is updated; DOT begins a rulemaking to require map accuracy within about 50 feet.

Over time, maps used for planning and safety should be more precise, which matters for emergency planning and locating pipelines near homes and businesses.

DOT issues a final rule setting minimum safety standards for carbon dioxide (CO2) pipelines.

Communities and first responders near CO2 pipelines could see clearer emergency planning requirements, including modeling where a CO2 release could travel.

Municipal gas safety and modernization grants become available once funded by Congress.

City-owned gas systems could apply for help replacing old pipes; customers may see fewer leaks and potentially less pressure for rate increases, but projects take time.

TSA cybersecurity rule for pipelines is finalized by the Department of Homeland Security.

Pipeline companies may need to meet clearer cybersecurity requirements, which can reduce the risk of hacking that disrupts fuel or gas service.