DOT to Reconsider LNG by Rail Rule

US DOT will reconsider a Final Rule promulgated in July 2020 that authorized the transport of liquefied natural gas (LNG)—also known as “Methane, refrigerated liquid”—in rail tank cars.  

A pair of Executive Orders* issued on day one of the Biden Administration direct regulatory agencies to reconsider existing regulations and other agency actions to ensure they are consistent with the policy goals and objectives set forth in the EOs.

The White House Fact Sheet: List of Agency Actions for Review indicates that DOT was explicitly directed to solicit comments regarding the LNG-by-rail Final Rule. It is the only hazardous materials transportation rulemaking on the list.

DOT will accept comments until June 4, 2021 on existing transportation and hazardous materials regulations, including the LNG-by-rail Final Rule, and other agency actions for consideration. 

Stakeholders and citizens can submit comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at regulations.gov, by mail, or by fax (202-493-2251). Comments should reference docket number DOT-OST-2021-0036.

More details about how to submit comments can be found in the May 5 Federal Register.

PHMSA's LNG by Rail Final Rule 

The Final Rule undergoing review authorized the transportation of LNG by rail in DOT-113C120W specification rail tank cars with enhanced outer tank requirements, subject to all applicable requirements and certain additional operational controls.

Before this Final Rule took effect, “Methane, refrigerated liquid” was not authorized for transport in rail cars because of safety concerns.

Read more about the LNG Final Rule.

*View the Executive Orders:
Protecting Public Health and the Environment… (Jan. 20, 2021)
Revocation of Certain Executive Orders Concerning Federal Regulation (Jan. 20, 2021)

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Tags: hazmat by rail, hazmat shipping, LNG, methane, refrigerated liquid, UN 1972