State of West Virginia Archives: on Local Issues


Earl Ray Tomblin: Update pipeline safety statutes with $200,000 per violation

Just a few months ago, many of us watched in shock when flames ripped through a community near Sissonville leaving houses leveled and a part of our highway charred when a major pipeline exploded. It was a true blessing no one was injured or killed. We have learned from that explosion and the investigation that followed, that West Virginia's pipeline safety statutes are outdated--with weak penalties and enforcement measures. In fact, West Virginia is currently out of compliance with federal guidelines.

Tonight, I am proposing legislation to bring our State into federal compliance. I propose a maximum penalty of up to $200,000 per violation, per day. It is my hope by increasing penalties, we will meet federal standards and ensure overall public safety.

Source: 2013 State of the State Address to W.V. Legislature Feb 13, 2013

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