On Jan. 3, the DEP lifted a statewide permit bar after reaching a Consent Order and Agreement with ETC Northeast Pipeline, the Energy Transfer subsidiary responsible for the 2018 explosion in Beaver County that leveled a house and barn.
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Lifting the permit bar, which had been in place since February 2019, clears the way for permit approvals and new pipeline drilling and construction.
We knew it was inevitable that the permit bar would be lifted at some point. It’s unfortunate that our lack of regulatory oversight has allowed this bad actor to continue to damage property, put people’s lives at risk, and impact the health and safety of Pennsylvania residents.
The decision to allow Energy Transfer to pay a fine and proceed, despite more than 2,000 permit violations, and without any credible emergency plan, directly affects the health, safety and welfare of my constituents right here in the 155th district.
It’s important for the community members affected by this route modification to make their voices heard. I’m glad that the DEP has honored my request to extend the public comment window and give constituents a fair chance to participate in this process.
