§60110 Excess flow valves

Summary

Requires the Secretary to set rules about when local natural gas companies must put excess flow valves on distribution lines that are built after the rules take effect or when a repair replaces a part so a valve can be added. The Secretary must make two sets of rules by April 24, 1994: one saying when valves are required and another saying how the valves must perform. In making the rules, the Secretary must consider things like pressures, customer types (for example hospitals, schools, businesses), technical feasibility, costs, safety benefits, meter locations, and other relevant factors. The performance rules can use industry standards. All installed valves must meet those rules. By October 24, 1994, the Secretary must also require gas companies to send written notices to customers whose lines could get valves but are not required by law. The notice must explain that valves are available, their safety benefits, and the costs to install, maintain, and replace them. Unless a valve is required under the rules above, a company must install a valve when a customer asks and pays all installation costs. If the Secretary decides no situations require mandatory valves, the Secretary must report the reasons to Congress within 30 days.