The Department of Transportation's Recent Efforts To Strengthen Pipeline Safety

GAO discussed the Department of Transportation's pipeline safety program, which its Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) administers. GAO noted that RSPA has responded positively to GAO recommendations by: (1) linking the level of states' pipeline inspection involvement to the size of their program grants; (2) revising procedures for monitoring state programs; and (3) improving its work-load management. However, GAO also noted that RSPA still needs to: (1) redefine the federal-state relationship regarding jurisdiction over various pipeline safety activities; (2) determine the cost-effectiveness of requiring pipeline operators to maintain quality assurance systems; and (3) assess whether it should regulate additional portions of the nation's pipeline system.