Pipeline Safety Act of 2000
Requires each operator of a gas transmission or hazardous liquid pipeline facility to: (1) analyze the risks to each facility located in a high-density population area or environmentally sensitive area; and (2) adopt a written integrity management program to reduce risks at such facilities.
Authorizes the Secretary, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing, to determine that a pipeline facility is or would be hazardous if its operation or associated equipment, material, or techniques are hazardous to life, property, or the environment.
Increases civil penalties for violations of specified Federal pipeline safety standards. Establishes: (1) civil penalties for the illegal discharge of oil or other hazardous liquid; and (2) both civil and criminal penalties for persons who engage in an excavation activity and subsequently damage a pipeline facility without reporting it promptly.
Requires operators of a gas transmission or hazardous liquid pipeline facility to educate the public on the use of a one-call notification system before excavation and other damage prevention activities, the possible hazards associated with unintended facility releases, the physical indications that a pipeline release may have occurred, the steps that should be taken for public safety, and how to report such a release.
Sets forth requirements with respect to: (1) support for innovative technology development as it relates to pipeline safety; (2) qualification of pipeline personnel; and (3) a strategic plan to reduce the annual number of pipeline releases caused by outside force damage by 25 percent within four years of enactment of this Act.
Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.