Requiring the use of steel products produced in the United States.
Impact
The proposed legislation is expected to significantly impact state laws relating to construction standards and the procurement of materials for utility infrastructure. It reinforces local and national efforts to utilize American-made products, potentially creating a ripple effect across the construction industry in Pennsylvania, encouraging the use of domestic suppliers for steel products. The provision may also align with broader state and federal policies aimed at enhancing local economic activity and reducing dependency on foreign materials.
Summary
House Bill 2013 aims to amend the Underground Utility Line Protection Law by mandating the use of steel products produced in the United States for certain construction activities. Specifically, the bill applies to the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, improvement, or maintenance of gathering lines, which are pipelines that transport natural gas from production facilities to transmission lines. By ensuring that only U.S.-produced steel products are utilized in these projects, the bill is designed to bolster domestic manufacturing and support local economies while promoting public safety and infrastructure integrity.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HB2013 appears supportive, particularly among proponents who see it as a proactive measure to protect public health and safety by ensuring that the materials used in critical infrastructure are sourced from within the United States. However, some stakeholders, including industry groups, may express concerns about potential increases in costs or delays related to sourcing U.S.-made steel, which could impact smaller contractors and the overall competitiveness of projects.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the practicality of implementing the bill's requirements, particularly concerning the availability and cost of domestic steel products. Critics may argue that while the intention behind the bill is to protect U.S. jobs and ensure quality, the mandate could inadvertently lead to increased project expenses, especially in regions where local supplies are limited. Moreover, there may be discussions on how this bill aligns with existing contracts or regulations that have been designed under different procurement standards.
Further providing for definitions, for duties of facility owners, for duties of designers, for duties of excavators, for duties of project owners, for damage prevention committee, for compliance orders and for administrative penalties; providing for action for recovery of penalty or forfeiture; and further providing for expiration of act.