I look forward to working with you this Congress to tackle freight and rail safety.

I would have to say PHMSA's statutory handcuffs on ability to make strong rules.

All safety responsibility must not fall to PHMSA.

In 2022, there were more than 280 significant or serious incidents and this year we have already had two fatalities as a result of pipeline incidents.

I share many of Councilmember Williams' views and as Ranking Member, I will ensure that this Committee's work to reauthorize the PIPES Act of 2020 puts safety at the forefront of every policy decision.

I think we have just got to be very clear-eyed about pipeline safety and fossil fuel pipeline safety, specifically, in this country.

It is an honor and a privilege to serve on this committee with you, and I am looking forward to your leadership and the bipartisan manner which you have already demonstrated.

I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today about their commitment to safety, if PHMSA has the resources necessary to hold bad actors accountable.

the truth, if we are honest about it, is that fossil fuel pipelines are disasters waiting to happen, plain and simple.

Reducing the risk of incidents means applying safety requirements, where appropriate, to existing pipeline infrastructure.

I call to attention the request from Members on my side of the aisle, led by Ranking Member Payne and Rep. Sykes, that this Committee hold a hearing on the Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

Putting safety first means greater oversight and accountability of the activities of pipeline operators.