CA AB578

Commission must respond to National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) safety recommendation letters concerning gas pipeline safety within 90 days, stating whether it will implement recommendations in full, partially, or refuse them with detailed reasons.

Commission must determine if NTSB safety recommendations or Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) advisory bulletins are appropriate, with the basis for determination detailed in writing and approved by majority vote.

Commission shall issue orders or adopt rules to implement appropriate safety recommendations or advisories as soon as practicable, considering whether more effective or equally effective but less costly alternatives exist.

Commission must report annually to the Legislature with detailed descriptions of all actions taken on NTSB safety recommendations and PHMSA advisory bulletins.

Bill became effective September 23, 2012 and contains no state mandate reimbursement requirement.