CT SB00094

Extends Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) oversight to persons involved in gas transportation, granting PURA inspection access to their premises and authority to conduct management audits and investigations

Increases the fine for obstructing PURA commissioners or employees from $200 to $10,000, with imprisonment up to six months

Grants utility commissioners authority to immediately halt gas transportation work that may endanger any person

Adopts federal gas pipeline safety standards from 49 CFR 191-193 and 199 as state standards, with civil penalties matching federal maximums under 49 USC 60122(a) or 49 CFR 190.223(a)

Requires hand digging or "soft digging" when excavating near facilities containing combustible or hazardous fluids/gases, and authorizes commissioners to stop excavation work for immediate life-threatening hazards from willful violations