Surface Transportation: Issues Associated With Pipeline Regulation by the Surface Transportation Board

GAO discussed the regulatory role of the Surface Transportation Board (STB), focusing on: (1) STB's responsibilities in regulating surface transportation; (2) the historical reasons for the economic regulation of pipelines; (3) the ability of alternatives to anhydrous ammonia pipelines to compete in the Midwest; and (4) issues before Congress as it decides to extend, modify or rescind STB's authority to regulate pipelines.