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1999 SESSION

993719718
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 480
Offered January 21, 1999
Requesting the Virginia State Corporation Commission to examine utility facility separation procedures in residences within the Commonwealth.
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Patrons-- Mims; Delegates: Black and May
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Referred to Committee on Rules
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WHEREAS, in July 1998, a natural gas explosion destroyed a newly-constructed home in Loudoun County; and

WHEREAS, the gas explosion resulted in the death of the mother of two small children, and severe injuries to the children’s father; and

WHEREAS, the incident is currently under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and

WHEREAS, an issue which the NTSB is investigating is whether electrical cable and natural gas pipe at the Loudoun County residence may have been installed in too close proximity, resulting in natural gas migration into the residence and its eventual ignition; and

WHEREAS, in view of this tragedy, it is appropriate to determine whether state regulations should be developed and implemented concerning utility facility separation on private property to protect homeowners from the potential dangers such installations present; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, the House of Delegates concurring, That the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) be requested to determine whether regulations should be developed concerning utility facility separation on private property and elsewhere. The SCC shall review and analyze preliminary and final NTSB findings concerning the Loudoun County explosion, taking notice of an ongoing pilot program providing for facilities to be installed together under a common easement. The SCC shall also review any other actions or proposals undertaken by the Utility Industry Coalition of Virginia. The SCC shall also seek information and assistance from public utilities within the Commonwealth, and from representatives of local governments.

All agencies of the Commonwealth shall provide assistance to the Virginia State Corporation Commission for this study, upon request.

The Virginia State Corporation Commission shall complete its work in time to submit its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the 2000 Session of the General Assembly as provided in the procedures of the Division of Legislative Automated Systems for the processing of legislative documents.