PHMSA issued a notice and request for comments on further proposed revisions to the annual report form for hazardous liquid pipelines (PHMSA F 7000-1.1). The notice addresses comments received regarding the state-by-state reporting requirement. PHMSA reported that API and AOPL commented that state-by-state reporting for parts D and E will not enhance pipeline safety or provide meaningful data, and that data collection will impose more burden on operators than PHMSA estimated. They point out that although the notice states that state-by-state information is essential for PHMSA’s response to state regulators, Congress, state officials, and the public following pipeline incidents, the notice fails to explain how the data will be used to quantify risk or advance pipeline safety. PHMSA already receives the data on a total system basis, which is consistent with PHMSA’s regulatory approach of overseeing the safety of the interstate liquids pipeline network overall, not on a state-by-state basis. March and May Edition of the DOT Pipeline Compliance News. PHMSA is forwarding the information collection request for the form to the Office of Management Budget (OMB) for approval.

Submit comments on or before August 12, 2013 via Email to Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB, at OIRA_Submission@omb.eop.gov Reference the docket number when submitting comments.

For a copy of this notice and proposed changes to the Hazardous Liquid Accident Report Form, contact Jessica Roger