[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 127 (Thursday, October 12, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1766]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                PIPELINE SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2000

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                               speech of

                            HON. BOB FRANKS

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 10, 2000

  Mr. FRANKS of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, having experienced, first 
hand, a needless pipeline tragedy in Edison, NJ, pipeline safety is of 
particular concern to me and the other members of our delegation. While 
I applaud the Senate's efforts to pass comprehensive pipeline safety 
legislation this year, I remain concerned that their final product 
would have limited local participation in critical pipeline safety 
decisions. I have also been contacted by many local officials, 
representatives from citizens safety groups and environmental advocates 
who feel that S. 2438 does not adequately address their concerns. 
Although the legislative process rarely allows for a ``perfect'' piece 
of legislation which addresses every concern, the process by which this 
bill was brought to the House Floor did not allow for any improvement 
upon the base text. Therefore, I would have voted against this bill and 
remain hopeful that we will be able to reach some bi-partisan 
compromise before Congress adjourns.

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