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 requires the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate regulations regarding the approval process for these manufacturers.
Key provisions include limiting approval periods, establishing criteria for 5-year approvals, and mandating facility inspections. It also introduces a process for reevaluating approvals based on requests from interested parties and requires additional safety-related questions in the application process.
Furthermore, the bill mandates the publication of a list of approved foreign manufacturers and authorizes more frequent foreign inspections, with cost recovery mechanisms.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in stricter oversight of foreign manufacturers of compressed gas cylinders, potentially leading to safer transportation of hazardous materials. This could increase compliance costs for foreign manufacturers and may affect the availability or price of cylinders in the U.S.
The new regulations could also lead to more frequent inspections and re-evaluations, ensuring ongoing compliance with safety standards. The increased transparency through public notification and listing of approved manufacturers may also enhance accountability.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Safety: Stricter regulations and oversight of foreign manufacturers can reduce the risk of accidents related to faulty cylinders.
- Increased Transparency: Public notification of applications and a public list of approved manufacturers promote accountability.
- Improved Compliance: The threat of suspension or termination for obstructing inspections incentivizes compliance.
- Re-evaluation Process: Allows interested parties to raise concerns about the accuracy and safety of FMOC actions.
- Cost Recovery for Inspections: Ensures that the government can adequately fund and conduct necessary inspections.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs: Foreign manufacturers may face higher compliance costs, potentially increasing the price of cylinders.
- Trade Disruptions: Stricter regulations could create barriers to entry for some foreign manufacturers, potentially disrupting supply chains.
- Administrative Burden: The Department of Transportation will face an increased administrative burden in implementing and enforcing the new regulations.
- Potential for Retaliation: Other countries may retaliate with similar regulations on U.S. manufacturers.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses solely on foreign manufacturers, potentially overlooking safety issues related to domestic manufacturers.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill 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. By regulating foreign manufacturers of cylinders used in transporting hazardous materials, the bill aims to ensure the safety and integrity of interstate and international commerce.
The bill also aligns with the general welfare clause (Preamble), as it seeks to promote the safety and well-being of the American people by reducing the risk of accidents related to hazardous materials transportation. The bill does not appear to infringe on any individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).