Wojnovich Pipeline Safety Act of 2025
Summary
The Wojnovich Pipeline Safety Act of 2025 aims to enhance the safety and modernization of hazardous liquid distribution infrastructure. It establishes a grant program managed by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to support these improvements. The act also mandates increased public access to information regarding pipeline incidents and requires enhanced emergency response plans and alert systems.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to safer pipeline operations through infrastructure upgrades and improved monitoring. Increased transparency and quicker emergency response times are expected to reduce the impact of pipeline incidents on communities. The establishment of a trust fund and penalties for accidents should incentivize safer practices.
Potential Benefits
- Improved pipeline safety through modernization grants.
- Increased transparency and public access to pipeline safety information.
- Enhanced emergency response plans and alert systems for communities near pipelines.
- Financial assistance for emergency responders dealing with pipeline incidents.
- Creation of a dedicated trust fund for pipeline safety initiatives.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs to pipeline operators due to new regulations and penalties.
- Administrative burden associated with grant applications and reporting requirements.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to regulatory hurdles.
- The penalty structure may disproportionately affect smaller operators.
- The 2% cap on administrative costs may limit the program's effectiveness.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by aiming to protect public safety and the environment. Congress's authority to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for federal oversight of hazardous liquid pipelines. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional right or freedom.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).