PHMSA has issued an interim final rule (IFR) to establish – for the first time ever – minimum federal standards for underground natural gas storage facilities. The IFR imposes significant new requirements in a short timeframe for “downhole facilities,” including wells, wellbore tubing and casings at underground natural gas storage facilities.
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Administrative Rulemaking
GPAC to Discuss PHMSA’s Pending Gas Pipeline Rulemaking
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The Gas Pipeline Advisory Committee (GPAC) will meet in Washington, D.C. next month to discuss PHMSA’s proposed gas rules.
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OIG Finds Insufficient Oversight and Coordination by PHMSA
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The Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a report criticizing PHMSA’s implementation of Congressional mandates and recommendations from the NTSB, GAO and the OIG itself.
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Underground Gas Storage Recommendations Likely to Inform Upcoming Rules
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The Interagency Task force on Natural Gas Storage Safety formed last April in response to the massive prolonged Aliso Canyon gas leak, recently issued its report on the safety and reliability of underground natural gas storage. …
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Distribution Excess Flow Valve Rule Finalized
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PHMSA released a pre-publication copy of its final rule expanding requirements for excess flow valves in natural gas distribution service pipelines. …
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Emergency Order Interim Regulations Released
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Taking the first step to implement its new emergency order authority, PHMSA has issued an interim final rule which will be effective immediately upon publication in the Federal Register. Final rules must be issued by March 19, 2017, but PHMSA will accept and consider comments filed within 60 days of publication. …
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Final Rules Require Methane Monitoring at New and Modified Oil and Gas Facilities
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In an effort to advance White House climate change targets, EPA recently finalized methane rules for new, heavily modified or reconstructed oil and natural gas facilities. …
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Comment Period Extended 30 Days for PHMSA Gas Proposed Rule
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PHMSA announced that it will extend the comment period on its proposed gas rule by only 30 days, with comments due on or before July 7, 2016. Due to the scope and complexity of the proposal, numerous parties requested a 60 day extension of the comment period. In granting the 30 day extension, PHMSA noted…
Key Pipeline Safety Organizational Changes
During a busy time for the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA or the Agency), and while Congress considers reauthorization legislation, there have been several significant personnel changes at the Agency.
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PHMSA Publishes Gas NPRM; Comments Due on or Before June 7, 2016
PHMSA’s expansive Natural Gas Notice of Proposed Rulemaking will be published in the Federal Register tomorrow, April 8, 2016. …
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