Statement on introduction of Pipeline Accountability, Safety and Environmental Standards Act of 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2024

CONTACT
Dan Radmacher, Media Specialist, (540) 798-6683, dan@appvoices.org

Today, Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., introduced the Pipeline Accountability, Safety and Environmental Standards Act of 2024, which will make several improvements to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s authority and capacity to regulate pipelines and ensure public safety. Key provisions in the bill include establishing an Office of Public Engagement tasked with coordinating outreach and communication with impacted communities, requiring older pipelines to be updated with modern safety features and requiring pipeline operators to share important safety information with the public.

Statement by Government Affairs Specialist Quenton King:
“We applaud Sen. Markey’s Pipeline Accountability, Safety and Environmental Standards Act of 2024 for prioritizing public safety and environmental stewardship. This legislation ensures greater transparency, robust community engagement, and critical protections for landowners and communities affected by pipeline routes. It is critical that the Senate include the provisions of this bill in the final PHMSA reauthorization package.”

Statement by Virginia Field Coordinator Jessica Sims:
“Since Congress passed legislation that allowed the Mountain Valley Pipeline to restart construction last year, residents along the pipeline’s route have been left in the dark regarding the enforcement of safety standards, especially when PHMSA reached a consent agreement with MVP developers that required extensive testing and reporting. Mandating that safety information be shared with people in harm’s way would help with monitoring and allow people to make informed decisions about the welfare of their homes and families.”