Pipeline Fines? Settle Faster with New PHMSA Consent Order Rules
Published Date: 4/24/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting April 24, 2026, pipeline companies and anyone involved in pipeline safety enforcement can settle all enforcement cases, even those with fines, through consent agreements. This change makes resolving issues faster and clearer, saving time and possibly money by avoiding long disputes. It’s a win-win for safety and smoother enforcement!
Free Policy Watch
New rules are filed every week. Most people never see them.
Pick a topic. PRIA watches every federal rule and tells you when one hits your household.
Pick a topic to get started
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Settle Any PHMSA Enforcement Case
Starting April 24, 2026, PHMSA clarifies that consent agreements and orders may be used to resolve any enforcement proceeding brought under 49 CFR part 190, subpart B, including cases that involve civil penalties. This means pipeline operators and others in enforcement proceedings can agree to settle a case instead of pursuing a full enforcement hearing.
Consent Orders Become Final Orders
The rule states that when a consent agreement and order is executed under Sec. 190.219, that consent order is treated as a final order under Sec. 190.213. This makes the settlement legally final once both parties execute the consent order.
No New Requirements; Clarifies Practice
PHMSA says the amendments are non-substantive, codify current informal practices, and do not impose new requirements on pipeline operators. The agency states it expects no significant costs and that the clarification will likely reduce regulatory burdens and improve uniformity in petition processes.
Can Request Consent Order As Response
The rule adds a response option in Sec. 190.208(a)(3) allowing respondents to request the execution of a consent order under Sec. 190.219. This gives parties receiving enforcement notices an explicit procedural option to ask for a settlement agreement.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Take the PRIA Score to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in