§1207 Pipeline Security Inspections and Enforcement

Summary

Within 9 months after August 3, 2007, the Secretary, working with the Secretary of Transportation and under the Annex to the Memorandum of Understanding dated August 9, 2006, must set up a program to check whether pipeline operators followed the recommendations in the September 5, 2002 Pipeline Security Information Circular. The program must review pipeline security plans and inspect critical facilities. Within 12 months after August 3, 2007, they must start a plan to review plans and inspect the critical facilities of the 100 most critical pipeline operators covered by that 2002 circular if those facilities have not been inspected for security since September 5, 2002 by either department. Reviews must use risk assessment methods to focus on the highest-risk assets. Within 18 months after August 3, 2007, the Secretaries must give security recommendations for natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines. If needed, they must consult and create regulations, carry out inspections and enforcement, and include civil penalties. Funds of $2,000,000 are to be made available to the Secretary for each of fiscal years 2008, 2009, and 2010 from amounts appropriated under section 114(w) of title 49.