PHMSA Seeks Comment on Pipeline, Hazmat ‘Regulatory Relief’

The ANPRMs are among the actions the agency is taking to implement the President’s “Unleashing American Energy” and “Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation” Executive Orders, according to PHMSA, which noted that “[t]hese rulemakings could save hundreds of millions of dollars in regulatory costs.”

The ANPRMs request feedback on whether to repeal or amend any requirements in the Pipeline Safety Regulations and the Hazardous Materials Regulations (download both below) “to eliminate undue burdens on the identification, development, and use of domestic energy resources and to improve government efficiency.” PHMSA also seeks feedback on “the value of codifying international and industry standards and widely used special permits with established safety records.”

“Regulations should be fit-for-purpose and produce safety benefits that justify the cost of compliance,” PHMSA Acting Administrator Ben Kochman said. “Engaging stakeholders in a comprehensive review will help us identify opportunities to update our regulations, unleash American energy, and produce enhanced safety outcomes.”

According to PHMSA, the Regulatory Review ANPRMs “are the latest in a series of planned regulatory actions that are just the beginning of PHMSA’s efforts to support the development and use of American energy resources.”