# Pipeline Safety; Enforcement Proceedings Involving an Informal Hearing
> **Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration** · General policy statement; informal hearing process. · Published 2011-07-12 · 76 FR 40820
## Document
- **Document number:** 2011-17231
- **Category:** pipeline-safety
- **Sub-agency:** Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
- **Federal Register citation:** 76 FR 40820
- **CFR reference:** 49 CFR 190
- **Publication date:** 2011-07-12
- **DOT docket:** Docket No. PHMSA-2011-0161
## Abstract

PHMSA is issuing this document to notify operators of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities of the creation of a dedicated "Presiding Official" for informal pipeline enforcement hearings and the process operators can expect when requesting an informal hearing. Hearings in pipeline safety enforcement cases are conducted by a hearing officer in accordance with certain procedures designed to ensure a fair and impartial decision on the merits. This document explains those procedures and includes a description of the dedicated hearing officer's roles and responsibilities, the process for requesting a hearing, and the manner in which a case will proceed once a hearing has been requested.

## Source
- [Federal Register document](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2011/07/12/2011-17231/pipeline-safety-enforcement-proceedings-involving-an-informal-hearing)
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