S. 2971: Plant Safety Authorities Coordination Act of 2025

The "Plant Safety Authorities Coordination Act of 2025" proposes amendments to federal law regarding the definition of "transporting gas" as it relates to gas operations at plants. Here is a summary of the key provisions of the bill:

Definition Changes

The bill seeks to clarify the term "transporting gas" within the context of federal regulations. The following changes are to be made:

• The current detailed definition will be simplified.
• It will specifically exclude certain activities from being classified as "transporting gas." This includes:
• Gathering gas in rural areas, as long as it is not done through regulated gathering lines.
• The movement of gas by a plant's owner or operator for various internal purposes such as:
• Use as fuel.
• Use as a feedstock for production.
• Any other purposes that directly support operations at the plant.

In-plant and Transfer Piping Systems

The bill specifies that the movement of gas for plant operations can occur through:

• Piping systems located entirely on the grounds of the plant.
• Transfer piping systems that extend less than 1 mile outside the plant premises.

This means that such movements would not be subject to certain federal regulations that apply to transportation of gas.

Purpose of the Bill

The intent behind these changes appears to be to reduce regulatory burdens on gas operations within plants, ensuring that internal operations and minor external transfers do not face the same regulatory scrutiny as traditional gas transportation activities.

Impact Areas

The changes may impact how gas is managed at various types of facilities, including manufacturing plants and processing facilities, potentially streamlining operations and allowing for greater flexibility in how gases are used within those environments.

Relevant Companies

• CVX - Chevron Corporation may be affected as it operates a variety of plants where gas is used as a fuel and feedstock.
• XOM - Exxon Mobil Corporation, similar to Chevron, manages gas operations within its plants and could see changes in regulatory compliance costs.
• DUK - Duke Energy may experience impacts due to gas management in its energy generation plants.