Bill > H3222

This bill aims to improve gas safety in excavation projects. It amends Section 144 of Chapter 164 of the General Laws in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. When a significant project on a public way exposes confirmed natural gas infrastructure, the municipality or the Commonwealth must notify the gas company. The gas company must then survey the area for Grade 1 or Grade 2 gas leaks and set repair and replacement schedules, and ensure that any shut-off valves have gate boxes or reasonable alternatives to ensure public safety. 2. For any planned project involving excavation or blasting work by gas company employees, the gas company must first locate and identify all gas gates and valves, verify they are cleared, operational, and accessible, and leave them in that condition after the project. 3. The gas company must provide written confirmation to the municipality or Commonwealth that the gas gates and valves have been cleared, inspected, and tested, and provide updated information if the locations were previously improperly documented. 4. Failure to verify and confirm the status of gas gates and valves before and after excavation or blasting work can result in fines of up to $10,000 and $200 per day, respectively.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H3222