Press Releases

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) today introduced the Voluntary Information-Sharing System Act, a bipartisan bill that will prevent future gas pipeline leaks and enhance environmental protections. Rep. Molinaro introduced this bill alongside U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-9).

New York’s 19th Congressional District is home to natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines that provide energy and heat to communities across the region, including dense metropolitans like Binghamton. Rep. Molinaro’s bill establishes a voluntary information sharing system (VIS) to encourage pipeline operators to share information with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Information shared with PHMSA will be used to create a comprehensive system to gather and evaluate critical pipeline safety data and recommendations to prevent future leaks and mitigate the environmental risks of pipelines.

Rep. Molinaro said, "This bipartisan initiative aims to proactively address and prevent gas pipeline leaks and improve environmental protections in Upstate New York. Upstate New Yorkers, including those in metropolitan areas like Binghamton, live in close proximity to natural gas pipelines and hazardous liquid pipes. Through the establishment of a Voluntary Information Sharing System (VIS), this bill encourages pipeline operators to work with – not against – its regulator. By fostering this collaboration, we will create a system that collects and analyzes crucial pipeline safety data, enabling us to take preventative measures to reduce the environmental impact of these vital pipelines."