Summary

Requires the Secretary of Transportation to allow pipeline owners and operators to use unmanned aircraft systems (drones) and satellites to satisfy federal requirements to inspect surface conditions on or next to pipeline rights-of-way. The change also makes clear that using drones or satellites does not exempt their operators from following other applicable laws and regulations for UAS or satellite operations.

• Mandates that the Secretary of Transportation must permit the use of drones (UAS) and satellites to satisfy required inspections of surface conditions on or adjacent to pipeline rights-of-way.
• Makes clear that using drones or satellites does not exempt their operators from other applicable laws and regulations governing UAS or satellite operations.
• Expands acceptable inspection methods to include remote sensing, which can reduce the need for some on-ground surveys.
• Does not change the underlying inspection standards, frequencies, or safety requirements federal regulators set.
• Does not provide new funding or change federal spending; it is a change in permitted inspection methods.
• Affects pipeline owners/operators and UAS/satellite operators by clarifying acceptable compliance options and responsibilities.
• May raise privacy and airspace coordination considerations where remote sensing is used over private or inhabited land.
• Likely lowers some operational costs for pipeline operators by enabling more remote inspection options, but does not relieve other regulatory obligations.