Bills of Congress June 12, 2025 by U.S. Congress

H.R.3948 - Offshore Pipeline Safety Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R. 3948, the Offshore Pipeline Safety Act, aims to enhance the safety and environmental protection of offshore oil and gas pipelines. It mandates updated regulations, regular inspections, leak detection systems, and studies on decommissioning risks. The bill also addresses exposed pipeline segments and the environmental risks of chemical products used in oil and gas operations.

Expected Effects

The Act will likely result in stricter oversight of offshore pipelines. This includes increased costs for pipeline operators due to new regulations and fees. It may also lead to safer operations and reduced environmental risks.

Potential Benefits

* Enhanced environmental protection through stricter pipeline regulations.
* Improved safety measures, reducing the risk of accidents and leaks.
* Increased monitoring of decommissioned pipelines.
* Funding for decommissioning or removal of pipelines in case of owner bankruptcy.
* Better understanding of environmental risks associated with decommissioning practices.

Most Benefited Areas:

Environmental Protection & Climate Action ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Public Health & Healthcare Access ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Public Safety & Crime Reduction ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Potential Disadvantages

* Increased operational costs for oil and gas companies due to new regulations and fees.
* Potential delays in decommissioning processes due to additional reviews and studies.
* Possible economic impact on the energy sector due to increased compliance costs.
* The annual pipeline fees could be passed on to consumers through higher energy prices.
* The act stipulates that no provision shall take effect without considering reef fish habitat, which may delay implementation.

Most Disadvantaged Areas:

Business Prosperity & Innovation ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Constitutional Alignment

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect the environment and public safety. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, which includes offshore oil and gas pipelines. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.

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).