To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to exclude certain propane storage facilities from certain chemical security standards under the Department of Homeland Security, and for other purposes.

2/1/2024, 8:30 AM

Summary of Bill HR 1623

Bill 118 hr 1623, also known as the Propane Security Act, aims to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 in order to exempt certain propane storage facilities from specific chemical security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. The bill is designed to address concerns raised by the propane industry regarding the burden of complying with these standards, which they argue are unnecessary and costly.

The bill specifies that propane storage facilities that meet certain criteria, such as having a maximum storage capacity of 60,000 gallons and being located in rural areas, will be exempt from the chemical security standards. These facilities will still be required to adhere to other safety regulations and guidelines set by the Department of Transportation and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Supporters of the bill argue that exempting these smaller propane storage facilities from the chemical security standards will help alleviate financial strain on businesses and prevent unnecessary regulatory burdens. They also believe that these facilities do not pose the same level of security risk as larger chemical facilities. Opponents of the bill, however, express concerns about the potential impact on public safety and national security. They argue that exempting certain propane storage facilities from these standards could leave them vulnerable to security threats and increase the risk of accidents or incidents that could harm nearby communities. Overall, the Propane Security Act seeks to strike a balance between ensuring the safety and security of propane storage facilities while also addressing the concerns of the industry regarding regulatory compliance and costs. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress and will undergo further review and debate before potentially being passed into law.

Congressional Summary of HR 1623

This bill excludes certain propane storage facilities from requirements under chemical facility anti-terrorism standards.

Specifically, such exclusion applies to a facility that stores propane for sale to or use by a dwelling, sale to or use in agricultural production, or sale to or use by small business concerns that are located in rural areas.

If the Department of Homeland Security determines that a propane storage facility does not satisfy the requirements of an excluded facility, it must report to Congress and notify the owner or operator of the facility.

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Current Status of Bill HR 1623

Bill HR 1623 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 17, 2023. Bill HR 1623 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on March 17, 2023. Bill HR 1623's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Materials. as of March 24, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1623

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

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Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1623

Primary Policy Focus

Emergency Management

Potential Impact Areas

- Hazardous wastes and toxic substances

- Industrial facilities

- Oil and gas

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1623

To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to exclude certain propane storage facilities from certain chemical security standards under the Department of Homeland Security, and for other purposes.