WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) Friday introduced the Pipeline Sabotage and Accident Prevention Act, which stiffens penalties for eco-terrorists who sabotage oil and gas pipelines, putting human lives and community safety at risk. 

“Pipelines continue to be the safest way to transport oil and gas across our nation,” said Bost. “But under current law, radical environmental activists could damage the structure of a pipeline and get off scot-free, despite the fact they are putting the lives of workers and nearby residents at risk. My commonsense bill tells these criminals that if there’s serious damage, there will be serious consequences.” 

“Physical attacks on natural gas pipelines is an enduring problem and needs to be addressed,” said Rob Darden, Executive Vice President of the Distribution Contractors Association. “While DCA supports the right for peaceful activism, including peaceful protests, we strongly support legislative language that would hold those who engage in criminal activities during protests accountable. We thank Rep. Bost for his leadership on this important safety issue.”

“Pipeline attacks can end up hurting the people involved, endangering the public around them and damaging the environment if there’s a release,” said Andy Black, President and CEO of the Liquid Energy Pipeline Association. “Thank you to Rep. Bost for leading the effort to close remaining loopholes in federal law against dangerous pipeline attacks,” 

The Pipeline Sabotage and Accident Prevention Act is cosponsored by Reps. Troy Nehls (TX-22) and Rick Crawford (AR-1). It is endorsed by the Distribution Contractors Association, Liquid Energy Pipeline Association (LEPA), Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA), and the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada.