Trent Lott: “I rise today to comment on a recent action by the Senate's Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology. In a…”

“I rise today to comment on a recent action by the Senate's Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology. In a completely bipartisan manner, the reauthorization for the Office of Pipeline Safety (S. 1505) was approved with a substitute amendment offered by Senator Pressler. The compromise amendment language was crafted through the leadership of Senators Pressler and Exon. It was also cosponsored by Senators Stevens, Hutchison, Inouye, Ford, Burns, and Breaux. It is now ready for consideration by the full Senate. The negotiations involved many, and included various offices within the Department of Transportation. The major trade organizations ranging from the American Gas Association, the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America, the American Petroleum Institute, the American Public Gas Association, to the Association of Oil Pipe Lines participated as well. Valuable Assistance was also received from the dedicated staff of the Congressional Research Service. Input was also received from state and environmental groups like the National Association of Pipeline Safety Representatives, the Natural Resource Defense Council, and the Environmental Defense Fund. The negotiations were both challenging and productive. I want to compliment the staff from the Department of Transportation for their constructive and collaborative participation. The major stakeholders are all in agreement--the substitute amendment is sound public policy.”