§1207 Pipeline Security Inspections and Enforcement

Summary

Require the Secretary, working with the Secretary of Transportation, to set up a program to check whether pipeline operators followed the recommendations in the September 5, 2002 Pipeline Security Information Circular. Within 9 months after August 3, 2007 the program must be established in line with the Annex to the Memorandum of Understanding signed August 9, 2006. Within 12 months after August 3, 2007 they must make and carry out a plan to review pipeline security plans and inspect the critical facilities of the 100 most critical pipeline operators named in the 2002 circular, but only where those facilities have not been inspected for security since September 5, 2002 by either the Department or the Department of Transportation. Risk assessment methods must be used to focus inspections and enforcement on the highest-risk pipeline assets. Within 18 months after August 3, 2007 the Secretaries must send security recommendations for natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines and facilities. If rules are needed, the Secretary must work with the Secretary of Transportation, create the rules, and carry out inspections and enforcement following the Annex. Any rules must include the 2002 circular guidance and add requirements if inspections show they are needed, and must allow civil penalties for noncompliance. From funds under 49 U.S.C. 114(w), $2,000,000 is made available for each of fiscal years 2008, 2009, and 2010 to carry out this work.