Pipeline Safety: Alternative Mitigation Measures for Required Repairs Delayed by a Need To Obtain Permits

Summary: Congress directed the Research and Special Programs Administration's (RSPA) Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) to revise its pipeline safety regulations, if necessary, to allow operators to take alternative mitigation measures while they seek governmental permits required for repairs. As RSPA/OPS interprets the pipeline safety regulations, they already allow such measures. Revising the regulations is not necessary.