Reps. Rouda and Garamendi Introduce Pipeline Seismic Safety Study Act

Washington, D.C. – This afternoon, Representative Harley Rouda (D-CA) and Representative John Garamendi (D-CA) introduced H.R. 4375, the Pipeline Seismic Safety Study Act.

The Pipeline Seismic Safety Study Act would direct the Secretary of Transportation and National Academy of Engineering to conduct a study on seismicity, land subsidence, and landslides concerning pipeline safety. This study will evaluate current Federal requirements for pipeline design as well as identify any deficiencies in industry practices.

Upon completion of the study, it will be submitted to the relevant Congressional committees, including the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for review.

Said Rouda, “The failure of our government to take earthquakes and landslides into account when building and inspecting pipelines is gross negligence. One seismic event underneath a pipeline could pollute the water supply of millions, and blanket communities in oil. This legislation will strengthen resiliency measures across the United States and inform future pipeline accountability efforts.”

Said Garamendi, “Federal standards for oil and gas pipelines must properly account for earthquakes, landslides, and related issues to prevent disasters. I am proud to work with Congressman Rouda on this critical issue for our state and will make this a priority as we work in Congress to reauthorize the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.”

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