Bill would renew pipeline safety programs and raise violation penalties

What does this do?

This bill reauthorizes PHMSA's pipeline safety programs for 2027-2031, sets annual funding around $180 million plus oil spill trust fund money, and narrows which "gathering lines" face full federal safety rules. It also raises civil and criminal penalties, changes hearing rights for enforcement challenges, updates the special permit waiver process, and creates a confidential safety data-sharing system plus stronger excavation damage prevention rules.

Who does it affect?

Pipeline operators, state regulators, and federal safety agencies are directly affected; the public, nearby communities, and excavation workers are affected indirectly.

Why does it matter?

The changes could shift which pipeline segments face federal oversight and how companies are penalized or challenge enforcement, affecting safety outcomes for workers and communities near pipelines.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• ~$180 million per year, 2027-2031
• plus oil spill trust fund money
• raises maximum civil penalties