Pipeline Violation Bill | Video

Jennifer Joas | 3/6/2013

The more oil and gas that comes out of the Bakken, the more pipelines need to go into the ground for transportation. That`s why legislators passed a bill to increase fines in the hopes of deterring pipeline companies from being careless.

"And may your Senators dispell the daydream of hitting one down the pipeline by pushing a button as green as the fairway it`s buried under," said Senator Phil Murphy (D) from Portland.

Senator Murphy said that riddle during his speech in favor of passing a bill to increase fines for pipeline violations.

"It`s more than just slightly important when you have pipelines carrying gas and oil," he said.

The bill will increase the fine from ten thousand dollars to 200-thousand dollars per violation, and up to two million dollars for a series of violations. A violation could include paperwork errors, not having well trained employees or pipeline corrosion.

"This bill today reinforces the importance of having the right people, having the right training, having the right response plans. Because at the end of the day, pipelines, when they go in the ground, they`re always pretty good. But over time as they deteriorate, if the maintenance isn`t done that`s when you can have problems," said Public Service Commissioner Brian Kalk.

Legislators hope the increased fines will help deter pipeline mishaps in North Dakota.

The bill passed the Senate 43 to 3, and will now go to the Governor for final approval.

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