News Releases
Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 2, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Statement by Gov. Gary Locke on the fine by federal Office of Pipeline Safety against Olympic Pipeline Co.

"This record fine of $3 million against Olympic Pipe Line Co. for safety violations related to last June's explosion points to the need for much stronger oversight of the operators of pipelines carrying fuel across our state. It also points to the critical need for Congress to pass federal legislation this year that would strengthen federal standards for testing and monitoring of pipelines in our communities, or preferably, give states the power to establish standards that go beyond those set by the federal government. We see great need for Washington, and other states, to be able to control such issues as operator training and certification, leak detection and accident preparedness and response. Protecting public safety is of paramount importance to the people of our state, and I urge Congress to help us protect our citizens from any future tragedies involving pipelines in Washington."

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