H.R.1182 - Compressed Gas Cylinder Safety and Oversight Improvements Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1182, the "Compressed Gas Cylinder Safety and Oversight Improvements Act of 2025," aims to enhance the safety and oversight of foreign manufacturers of cylinders used for transporting hazardous materials. The bill mandates the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate regulations regarding the approval process for these manufacturers. It introduces stricter requirements for approval, including shorter approval periods and more frequent inspections.
The Act also establishes a process for reevaluating approvals based on requests from interested parties and requires public notification and comment periods for applications. Furthermore, it mandates additional questions in the application process to ensure safety and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) processes.
Finally, the bill directs the Secretary to publish a list of approved foreign manufacturers and revise inspection regulations to allow for more frequent inspections and cost recovery.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely result in increased scrutiny of foreign manufacturers of compressed gas cylinders. This will be achieved through more stringent approval processes and oversight. It aims to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure compliance with safety standards.
It will also increase transparency through public notification of applications and the publication of approved manufacturers. The Act may also lead to higher costs for foreign manufacturers due to increased inspection frequency and associated fees.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Enhanced safety in the transportation of hazardous materials due to stricter oversight of foreign manufacturers.
- Increased transparency in the approval process through public notification and comment periods.
- Improved compliance with safety regulations by foreign manufacturers due to the threat of suspension or termination of approval.
- A mechanism for interested parties to request reevaluation of FMOC approvals based on evidence of inaccurate or fraudulent attestations.
- Greater accountability of foreign manufacturers through additional questions in the application process regarding past violations and compliance issues.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for foreign manufacturers due to more frequent inspections and associated fees, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.
- Potential delays in the approval process due to increased scrutiny and public comment periods.
- Possible trade tensions with countries where these foreign manufacturers are located, if the regulations are perceived as overly burdensome or discriminatory.
- The act may disproportionately affect smaller foreign manufacturers who may struggle to meet the more stringent requirements.
- Increased administrative burden on the Department of Transportation to implement and enforce the new regulations.
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The Act appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. By regulating foreign manufacturers of cylinders used in transporting hazardous materials, the Act aims to ensure the safety and efficiency of interstate and international commerce.
There are no apparent violations of individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. The Act does not infringe upon freedom of speech, religion, or any other constitutionally protected right. The due process clause of the Fifth Amendment is relevant, as the regulations must provide fair procedures for manufacturers seeking approval and for appealing any adverse decisions.
Overall, the Act seems to be within the constitutional authority of Congress to regulate commerce and promote public safety.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).