SRC-TNM S.B. 1912 75(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 1912
By: Cain
Natural Resources
4-17-97
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, only federal pipeline inspectors are authorized to inspect
interstate pipelines.  There are eight pipeline inspectors for the federal
program whose jurisdiction covers a five-state region.  The state has
roughly 35 pipeline inspectors for intrastate pipelines.  The Railroad
Commission currently has a temporary interstate agent status which allows
inspectors to inspect interstate pipelines on an individual basis, but
state law does not authorize them to do so.  S.B. 1912 would give
statutory authority for state inspectors to inspect interstate pipelines
and allow the Railroad Commission to continue as a temporary interstate
agent. 
 
PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 1912 outlines provisions regarding inspection of
interstate hazardous liquids pipelines within the State of Texas. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

Rulemaking authority is granted to the Railroad Commission under SECTION 2
(Section 117.012, Natural Resources Code) of this bill. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 117, Natural Resources Code, to provide that the
Railroad Commission (commission) has jurisdiction over all pipeline
transportation of hazardous liquids or carbon dioxide and over all
hazardous liquid or carbon dioxide pipeline facilities as provided in the
Pipeline Safety Act (Hazardous Liquids Pipeline Safety Act of 1979).
Authorizes the commission to also seek designation as an interstate agent
to conduct safety inspections on all interstate facilities within the
borders of the state. 

SECTION 2. Amends Section 117.012, Natural Resources Code, by adding
Subsection (g), to require the commission to adopt rules for public
education and awareness for pipeline facilities and community liaison for
responding to emergencies. 

SECTION 3. Emergency clause.
  Effective date: 90 days after adjournment.