Hydrogen pipeline safety.

Senator Archuleta's hydrogen pipeline safety legislation establishes California's first comprehensive regulatory framework for dedicated hydrogen pipelines, directing the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to develop and enforce statewide safety standards by January 2028.

The measure requires hydrogen pipelines to incorporate continuous measurement and monitoring systems capable of detecting operational anomalies and preventing atmospheric releases. Pipeline materials must meet American Society of Mechanical Engineers standards for hydrogen compatibility and resistance to degradation. Pipeline owners must maintain records of hydrogen concentration levels and any measurable leakage, submitting annual compliance reports to the PUC.

The PUC will define qualifying hydrogen pipelines as those carrying more than 50 percent hydrogen gas by volume, applying to both newly constructed pipelines and existing infrastructure undergoing major retrofits after the standards take effect. The commission must regularly review and update these requirements to reflect technological advances and emerging best practices, maintaining consistent enforcement across all state jurisdictions.

Under the Public Utilities Act, violations of the new safety standards or related PUC directives would constitute criminal offenses. While this creates a state-mandated local program, the bill specifies that no reimbursement to local agencies is required since the changes only modify existing legal frameworks rather than establishing new programs.