[Docket No. PHMSA-2025-1271] PHMSA has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would update the agency’s breakout tank inspection regulations under 49 CFR Part 195. The proposal would incorporate the 5th Edition of API Standard 653, replacing the currently referenced 3rd Edition, and would authorize operators to use Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) procedures when establishing…
June 2026
PHMSA Clarifies MAOP Restoration Timeline Under Class Location Change Rule
[Docket No. PHMSA-2017-0151] PHMSA has issued a technical correction to its January 14, 2026, final rule on Class Location Change requirements in 49 CFR §192.611. The original rule allows operators to use an Integrity Management (IM) alternative to confirm or restore Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure (MAOP) on eligible gas transmission pipeline segments impacted by a…
PHMSA Names Thomas Correll as Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety
PHMSA has named Thomas (Tom) Correll as its new Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety. Correll brings more than 30 years of experience in pipeline safety, integrity management, environmental compliance, and risk management. Prior to joining PHMSA, Correll served as Vice President of Pipeline Safety and Risk at Northern Natural Gas, where he led compliance and…
PHMSA Releases Major Wave of Rulemakings
On April 24, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published a sweeping set of 40 rulemakings to the Federal Register, including a mix of Final Rules, Direct Final Rules (DFRs), and Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRMs) covering a wide range of pipeline safety topics. The actions span multiple sections of the Federal Pipeline…
Featured Service
TaskOp Highlight: Underground Gas Storage RCP has earned a worldwide reputation for providing professional engineering services and regulatory expertise to oil and gas operators, including underground gas storage in depleted reservoirs, aquifers and salt caverns. We have the RESOURCES, SOFTWARE and the KNOWLEDGE to assist clients with building, implementing, and improving comprehensive operational integrity management…
The Enforcement Corner
The Enforcement Corner summarizes recent PHMSA enforcement actions, indicating where PHMSA is putting its enforcement efforts and the fines they are proposing for various types of violations. In May 2026, PHMSA issued 1 CAO, 3 NOA, 6 NOPVs, and 4 WLs accompanied by $673,930 in proposed fines. Please note: RCP maintains a detailed database of…
Did You Know?
Did You Know? The United States has approximately 3 million miles of natural gas pipelines, forming one of the world’s largest energy transportation networks. These pipelines safely deliver natural gas from production areas and storage facilities to homes, businesses, power plants, and industries across the country. Click here to learn more.
Q&A Section
Do you have questions? RCP’s SMEs have the answers. Information will be posted here for questions we often get from clients or discussions we have with regulators regarding interpretations and pending regulatory deadlines. Q: If a valve is remotely controlled, does it automatically meet the requirements for a rupture mitigation valve (RMV)? A: No. While…
2026 Conference News
Texas RRC Regulatory Conference July 13-15, 2026 | Kalahari Resorts & Conventions | Round Rock, TX The Railroad Commission of Texas invites you to our premier three-day training event—the definitive resource for navigating Texas energy regulations, procedures and processes. Gain expert guidance on the laws and procedures affecting hydrocarbon production, pipeline safety and critical infrastructure. Plus,…
PSI Training Schedule
DATE COURSE FEE Aug. 4-6, 2026 DOT Pipeline Compliance Workshop (49 CFR 191, 192, 194, 195 & 199) $2,150 Sep. 22-24, 2026 Pipeline Safety Audit Training (Comprehensive training with technical and soft skills) $2,150 Nov. 17-19, 2026 DOT Pipeline Compliance Workshop (49 CFR 191, 192, 194, 195 & 199) $2,150 FREE LIVE WEBINAR ALERT!Unpacking the…