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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Vice President

For Immediate Release September 7, 2000

STATEMENT BY THE VICE PRESIDENT

I commend the Senate for taking action today on the important issue of pipeline safety. And I urge the House to take up pipeline safety legislation soon, so that we can enact a strong, new pipeline safety law before the end of the year. The tragic accidents that occurred near Carlsbad, New Mexico, and in Bellingham, Washington, underscore the need for an enhanced federal pipeline safety program.

This Administration will continue to work with Congress to enact a strong pipeline safety law this year. Such a law must establish better standards for the inspection, testing and maintenance of our Nation's pipelines, backed by rigorous enforcement, effective state-federal partnerships, adequate resources, and the best technology achievable. We must also guarantee every community's right to know where these pipelines are and how well they are being operated and maintained.

We must enact strong pipeline safety legislation this year, so that everyone can live in safer communities and a healthier environment.

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