PIPES Act - Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act of 2016
“Americans rely on energy transported through our nation’s pipeline network — and its safety and certainty. The PIPES Act reforms pipeline safety and will help answer the need for more reliable access to energy,” Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., who serves as chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, said.
The PHMSA is responsible for regulating the pipelines, although the independent National Transportation Safety Board evaluates the pipeline agency’s findings.
Louis Finkel, executive vice president of the Washington, D.C.-based American Petroleum Institute, welcomed the legislation.
“The oil and gas industry remains committed to continuous improvement in pipeline safety,” he said.
“The industry is devoted to zero incidents. We continue to lead in protecting the public and the environment.”
“This bipartisan legislation will create a safer pipeline transportation network across our country through stronger congressional oversight and increased collaboration between stakeholders,” Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb, said.
“The bipartisan PIPES Act will implement important oversight and accountability measures, encourage the use of new technology, and help ensure pipeline safety in communities in New Jersey and around the country,” Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J. said.
Sens. Steve Daines, R-Mont., and Gary Peters, D-Mich., said safe pipeline infrastructure is vital for both the economy and the environment, as did Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer, both D-Calif.
“I’m very pleased that this bill is on its way to the president’s desk to be signed into law and help safeguard against the catastrophic consequences of an oil spill in our precious waterways,” Peters added.
Source: The Intelligencer Wheeling News-register