API welcomes new pipeline safety legislation

The American Petroleum Institute (API) welcomed new pipeline safety legislation signed into law by President Obama on 22 June. S. 2276, the PIPES Act, gives Congress and pipeline operators transparency into the regulatory process and sets timelines for feedback to operators on pipeline inspections.

“Maintaining America’s status as the world’s leading oil and natural gas producer requires energy infrastructure,” said API President and CEO Jack Gerard. “Pipelines are one of the safest, most efficient ways to transport the energy families and businesses need. This legislation supports industry’s progress toward our goal of zero incidents and gives pipeline operators regulatory certainty for the next three years.

“Pipelines not only deliver the energy Americans need but they also deliver the clean-burning natural gas that has helped drive carbon emissions to 20 year lows and provide a critical link to connect our abundant oil and natural gas resources to refineries, chemical plants, business and consumers.

“82% of American voters support building energy infrastructure. Policymakers should recognise that energy infrastructure is not a partisan issue; it’s a jobs and energy security issue.”

Natural gas and liquids interstate pipelines deliver 99.999% of product without incident, but pipeline operators recognise more can be done to ensure that the US continues to have the safest, most robust pipeline network in the world. Operators continue to spend billions of dollars every year to evaluate, inspect, and maintain pipelines, and API has released several new standards geared toward continuous pipeline safety improvement.

New polling shows 82% of American voters support increased energy infrastructure, including strong majorities of Republicans (88%) Independents (88%) and Democrats (74%).

API thanked House and Senate leaders, and the White House, for approving a bill that will enhance our energy infrastructure so Americans can continue to enjoy reliable, affordable fuels.

Edited from source by Stephanie Roker

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/equipment-and-safety/23062016/api-welcomes-new-pipeline-safety-legislation/