On the recordSeptember 22, 2010
I am proud to introduce the Strengthening Pipeline Safety and Enforcement Act of 2010 today along with my colleague, Senator Feinstein. On September 9, 2010, San Bruno, California suffered a terrible tragedy when a natural gas transmission pipeline unexpectedly exploded beneath a busy residential neighborhood. The catastrophic explosion and the resulting fire was a horrific event, creating a massive fireball that many described as the largest earthquake they had ever felt. The tragedy killed four people, injured 66, and destroyed nearly three dozen homes. Preliminary estimates put the cost of the damage and recovery at $65 million. This tragic incident should not have happened. Californians and all Americans must feel confident that their communities are safe and that the regulatory agencies responsible for ensuring the safety of natural gas pipelines are doing everything possible to guarantee their safety. That is why we are introducing this legislation today.





