Pipeline Safety
The Challenge
In June of 1999, a pipeline exploded in Whatcom Falls Park,
killing three young people. The community came together and demanded
safer pipelines.
Senator Murray wrote the first pipeline safety bill, educated other
Senators, secured funding for new inspectors and technology, and got
her bill passed three times (timeline).
In December 2002, the Murray-McCain Pipeline Safety Act became law.
Pipelines Are Safer Today
- Pipeline Accidents: Down 40 percent in Washington
since Murray’s law passed.
- Stronger Inspections: Inspections are 10 times more rigorous
than before.
- Fixing Problems: Pipeline problems are being found and fixed
at double the rate before the law.
- Boosting Staff: The Office of Pipeline Safety has been increased
by 20 percent.
- Stronger Enforcement: "Corrective Action Orders" issued
at three times the rate they did five years ago.
- Higher Penalties: Average civil penalties have doubled.
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Recent News Releases
6/10/2009
Murray, Cantwell Pass Senate Resolution Commemorating June 10th as "National Pipeline Safety Day"
6/10/2009
Murray Commemorates Bellingham Pipeline Explosion in Speech on Senate Floor
6/10/2009
PHOTO: Murray Helps Pass Resolution Designating June 10th as National Pipeline Safety Day
7/10/2007
Chairman Murray Moves $104.6 Billion Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Bill Forward
2/14/2007
Murray Votes for Joint Funding Resolution that Invests in Critical National Priorities
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