The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (“PHMSA”) issued a news release announcing $86 million in grants to:
…enhance states’ pipeline safety programs.
PHMSA states that the grants will help its “state partners” inspect more than 85 percent of the nation’s 3.3-million-mile pipeline network.
The grants are allocated to two formula-based programs:
- Pipeline Safety State Base Grants and
- Underground Natural Gas Storage Grants.
A chart accompanying the news release lists three categories:
- CY 2025 State Estimated Program Costs
- Total Grant Award
- Allocation %
Arkansas’ total estimated 2025 program costs are $1,256,425. Total grant award is $729,929. Allocation percentage is listed as 58.10%.
The state of Arkansas inspects and enforces pipeline safety regulations for intrastate gas pipeline operators. This work is undertaken by the Pipeline Safety Office of the Arkansas Public Service Commission. However, the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission has jurisdiction over the regulated gas lines that are operated by gas producers.
The Arkansas Natural Gas and Pipeline Safety Act provides the Arkansas Public Service Commission the authority to obtain a certification with the federal government to regulated pipeline safety of intrastate natural gas operators.
The Arkansas Pipeline Safety Office inspects for operating safety, gas leakage, and the control of corrosion at the facilities, which include:
- 4 natural gas distribution utilities.
- 26 intrastate natural gas operators.
- 163 master meter gas systems.
A copy of the grant awards list can be found here.
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