Pipeline inspectors hiring authority by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration proposed
Last week, a group of bipartisan Members introduced H.R. 3823, a bill that would see direct hiring authority of pipeline inspectors handed over to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, or PHMSA.
Rep. Pete Olson (R-TX) noted the bill expedites the process to hire more pipeline inspectors “to improve the safety and delivery of vital resources flowing through America’s pipelines”.
The bill, which would shift hiring authority away from the Office of Personnel Management, would place emphasis on creating opportunities for women, veterans and minorities.
House Energy and Commerce Committee member Gene Green (D-TX) said updating the country’s infrastructure is only one part of making pipelines safer. Green added “we need to hire and invest in pipeline inspectors. This bill will expedite that process while creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.”
Democrat Janice Hahn from California says she has long called for PHMSA to be more active on pipeline inspections, however, there have not been enough inspectors to do the work. She believes more inspectors will mean safer pipelines and communities.
“This legislation is a step toward preventing pipeline ruptures like those we have seen recently in my community in Wilmington as well as in Santa Barbara.” said Hahn.
Brian Babin (R-TX) says he is a strong supporter of the US energy pipeline system and adds he is pleased to be part of the bill. “This bill will help ensure our pipeline network remains the safest and most cost-effective way to transport large volumes of energy products across the United States.”