S. 2979: PHMSA Voluntary Information Sharing Act

The "PHMSA Voluntary Information Sharing Act" aims to enhance the safety of pipeline operations within the United States by establishing a confidential and voluntary information-sharing system. Here’s a breakdown of the key components of the bill:

Information Sharing System

The bill mandates the Secretary of Transportation to create a system designed for the confidential and nonpunitive exchange of safety-related data regarding pipeline operations. This system is intended to be implemented within a year of the bill's enactment.

Purpose and Benefits

The primary goals of the information-sharing system include:

• Gathering and assessing critical data related to pipeline safety.
• Facilitating the sharing of effective safety practices and lessons learned among pipeline operators.

Governance Structure

A governing board will oversee the system. This board will consist of 15 members representing a balance of stakeholders, including:

• Federal and state government officials
• Industry representatives from gas and hazardous liquid sectors
• Public safety advocacy groups

The board will be responsible for strategic oversight, governance documents, and ensuring that the information-sharing process is effective and secure.

Roles and Responsibilities

• The Secretary of Transportation is tasked with establishing the system.
• A Program Manager will handle day-to-day operations of the information-sharing system.
• A Third-Party Data Manager will be appointed to manage the safety data, ensuring confidentiality and secure handling of information.
• Issue Analysis Teams may be created by the governing board to evaluate specific topics and issues relevant to pipeline safety and make recommendations.

Confidentiality and Protection of Information

To encourage participation in the information-sharing system, the bill includes strong confidentiality provisions:

• Data submitted to the system will remain confidential and not disclosed publicly without proper authorization.
• Information will not be usable in legal matters, thus reducing fear of legal repercussions for participants who share data.

Funding and Sustainability

The Secretary of Transportation is encouraged to explore sustainable funding sources for the information-sharing system, including potential public-private partnerships. Additional funding may also be sought directly to support its establishment and operation.

Annual Reporting

The Secretary is required to report annually to Congress on the status and effectiveness of the information-sharing system.

Voluntary Participation

Participation in the system is voluntary; operators and stakeholders can choose whether or not to contribute data.

Relevant Companies

None found.