Public resources: transportation of carbon dioxide.
If enacted, AB 881 will revise the provisions under the Elder California Pipeline Safety Act of 1981 and the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. This will facilitate the safe transportation of carbon dioxide and ensure compliance with stricter safety standards aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to at least 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. The legislation stipulates that pipelines constructed specifically for carbon dioxide cannot be approved if they were originally built for other substances, thereby preventing the repurposing of older pipelines for carbon transportation, which enhances public safety and environmental considerations.
Assembly Bill 881, introduced by Assembly Member Petrie-Norris, aims to amend existing laws related to the transportation of carbon dioxide through intrastate pipelines. Specifically, the bill ushers in a definition of 'pipeline' that now includes those used to transport carbon dioxide, aligning state regulations with federal safety standards proposed for the transportation of hazardous materials. The bill mandates that the State Fire Marshal adopts new regulations by April 1, 2026, ensuring the safe handling of carbon dioxide in pipelines, similar to draft regulations set forth by the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
The discussion surrounding AB 881 has shown a general sentiment that favors environmentally responsible legislation. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for effectively addressing climate change and facilitating carbon capture technology, which is critical to California’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. They believe it enhances regulatory oversight and safety in the burgeoning field of carbon transportation. Conversely, there are concerns regarding the implications of increased regulation on industry practices and the potential costs associated with compliance, which might be a point of contention among some stakeholders.
The most notable point of contention arising from AB 881 is the balance between ensuring environmental safety and facilitating commercial use of carbon dioxide pipelines. The bill’s stipulations may pose challenges for industries looking to transport carbon dioxide, as they will need to navigate the new regulatory framework and ensure compliance with tougher safety standards. Moreover, opposition may arise from entities concerned about the operational impacts and costs associated with adapting existing infrastructure to meet the requirements outlined in the bill.