Pipeline Safety: Atmospheric Corrosion Reassessment for Pipeline Replacements

The American Gas Association, American Public Gas Association, and Northeast Gas Association support the proposed rule to exempt service lines from the three-year atmospheric corrosion reassessment if the affected portions are remediated. They argue that full service line replacement is unnecessary, poses higher safety risks than targeted repairs, and is significantly more costly.

The Pipeline Safety Trust, a non-profit watchdog organization, supports the proposed rule but suggests specific language revisions to clarify the definition of "replacement" and the term "reassessment." They argue that the rule should require full replacement of a service line to qualify for an exemption to ensure public safety and prevent incidents caused by partially replaced corroded lines.

Erin Sutherland of the Pipeline Safety Trust, a nonprofit watchdog organization, is requesting a 30-day extension of the comment period for the proposed action. The organization argues that more time is needed to consult with experts and stakeholders to provide comprehensive and substantive feedback.