S. 2975: Pipeline Integrity, Protection, and Enhancement for Leveraging Investments in the Nation's Energy to assure Safety Act of 2025

The Pipeline Safety Act of 2025 is legislation designed to improve the safety of pipelines across the country. The bill includes several key provisions aimed at enhancing pipeline safety measures through increased funding, updated standards, and improved emergency response protocols. Key elements of the bill include:

Enhanced Funding and Safety Programs

The bill allocates funding to support safety programs, with up to $75 million authorized annually from 2027 to 2030. This funding will come from general revenues and not impact user fees. The Secretary of the relevant department has the authority to increase the federal share of project grants up to 80% after the census.

Modernization of Safety Standards

New regulations will be established to ensure the safe transportation of natural gas and other fuels, specifically focusing on the assessment of composite materials. Operators will need to respond to risk assessments and update regulations in a timely manner. A report evaluating the safety of these materials must be submitted to Congress within a year of the bill’s enactment.

Improved Emergency Response and Whistleblower Protections

The bill promotes better emergency response capabilities and strengthens protections for whistleblowers who report safety violations. This aims to encourage transparency and accountability within pipeline operations.

Conservation and Wildlife Considerations

Operators who explore alternative methods for maintaining pipeline rights-of-way are required to implement conservation practices that benefit pollinators and wildlife. They must consult guidelines from relevant authorities and actively identify risks associated with pipeline facilities while adhering to existing safety regulations.

Streamlined Inspection Processes

The legislation seeks to improve the coordination of inspections across regional offices to reduce redundant assessments. It facilitates the sharing of inspection findings before enforcement actions are taken and addresses the varying interpretations of compliance. Additionally, there will be annual public reports summarizing the results of pipeline inspections to ensure stakeholder engagement in the rulemaking process.

Risk Assessments and Transparency

Pipeline operators are mandated to conduct risk assessments to identify potential safety risks. The importance of transparency in operations is emphasized, ensuring that relevant information is accessible to stakeholders and the public.

Communication with Congress

Before selecting projects for funding, Congress must be notified three days in advance and provided with lists of applications and reports related to those projects.

Relevant Companies

• ET - Energy Transfer: As a major operator of pipelines, changes in safety regulations and funding could impact their operational costs and compliance with new standards.
• OKE - ONEOK, Inc.: This natural gas and natural gas liquids company may be affected by new materials and safety assessments for transporting fuels.
• DCP - DCP Midstream: As a pipeline operator, DCP may see changes in their operational protocols and funding opportunities due to this legislation.