On July 8, 2026, PHMSA published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would modernize the federal repair criteria for hazardous liquid and gas transmission pipelines. If adopted, these would be the first significant updates to the repair requirements in nearly 20 years.

The proposal is intended to better align the regulations with current engineering practices, inspection technologies, and repair methods while reducing unnecessary operational disruptions. PHMSA estimates the proposed changes could save pipeline operators approximately $390 million over time by allowing greater flexibility in evaluating and repairing certain pipeline conditions without compromising safety.

Among the proposed changes are updates to repair criteria for dents, gouges, cracks, corrosion, and other anomalies identified during integrity assessments. The rule would also revise repair schedules, clarify existing requirements, and incorporate modern engineering assessment methods that have become common throughout the industry.

This proposed rule follows PHMSA’s 2025 Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, which sought public feedback on opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the current repair regulations.

Pipeline operators, engineers, and integrity management professionals should review the proposal carefully to understand how the revisions may affect inspection programs, repair decision-making, and compliance strategies. Comments on the proposed rule are due by September 8, 2026.

Click here to view the full NPRM. If you have any questions, please contact Jessica Foley.

Louisiana enacted two measures during the 2026 Regular Session that update the state’s Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention Law.

Act 161 “Mandatory Reporting of Damage to Utilities” – When underground facilities or utilities are damaged by excavation or demolition, in addition to notifying the owner or operator the excavator or demolisher must notify the regional notification center (La 811). La 811 will alert other facility owners or operators in the area that may also have been affected.

Act 902 “Damage Prevention Law” was updated to strengthen communication and coordination between excavators, utility operators, and La 811, and help reduce the risk of damage to underground infrastructure. Key changes address material provided to an excavator/demolisher when utilities are present but not marked, positive responses through La 811, making mandatory the participation of most municipality or parish governments, annual training requirements, and enforcement. The law also establishes additional coordination and notification requirements for certain BEAD-funded broadband projects.

The changes are intended to strengthen communication and coordination between excavators/demolishers, utility operators, and La 811 to help reduce the risk of damage to underground infrastructure.

For a copy of Act 161 or Act 902, please message Jessica Foley.