News Releases
Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 3, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Locke's statement on new federal pipeline safety rules

"I am pleased that the federal Department of Transportation has finalized its rules for pipelines transporting hazardous liquids through populated and environmentally sensitive areas. The issuance of these rules today reflects an expedited timetable, and in light of Congress' failure to mandate new requirements, I am reassured that the Administration recognized the importance of acting quickly and decisively.

"I also am encouraged to see that the final rule is stronger than the DOT had proposed, and will require internal pipe assessments every five years rather than every 10. DOT explicitly notes that partnering states -- such as Washington -- will enforce the new rule; this reflects its recognition of my insistence that we be granted additional authority to protect the people and environment of our state."

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