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.