The funding will support inspections of the nation’s energy infrastructure and state enforcement of federal safety standards.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced $86 million in federal grants to strengthen state oversight of pipeline safety. Administered by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), the funds will help state agencies inspect more than 85 percent of the country’s 3.3-million-mile pipeline system. The awards include $82 million in Pipeline Safety State Base Grants and $4 million in Underground Natural Gas Storage Grants. These programs reimburse states for up to 80 percent of costs related to inspections, enforcement, and safety activities.
“PHMSA values its partnership with state regulators who share responsibility for overseeing the nation’s energy transportation infrastructure,” said PHMSA Acting Administrator Ben Kochman. “We remain committed to supporting them through grants, training, and other essential resources needed to accomplish their safety mission.”
“Safety is the number one priority of the Department of Transportation,” said Secretary Duffy. “The grants announced today will support our existing partnership with states to support pipeline inspection, keep communities safe, and keep our energy economy moving.”
Officials said the effort aims to protect communities while ensuring the safe movement of energy and hazardous materials vital to daily life.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For wisdom for Secretary Duffy as he seeks to increase the safety of pipeline infrastructure.
- For Acting Administrator Kochman as he oversees the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
Sources: Department of Transportation
