NC S780

Department of Environmental Quality's Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources shall study the condition, safety, and environmental impact of petroleum product pipelines in North Carolina with assistance from the Public Staff of the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

Study shall evaluate and recommend updates to oil damage prevention statutes, cost-recovery mechanisms for pipeline safety programs and infrastructure replacement, and improvements to emergency planning and communication among first responders, pipeline operators, landowners, and regulators.

One hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) in nonrecurring funds for fiscal year 2022-2023 is appropriated from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Quality for the study.

Department may establish time-limited positions and contract with nonprofit entities to assist with the study.

Department shall report findings and recommendations to the Joint Legislative Commission on Energy Policy no later than April 1, 2024.