Line of Sight: Pipeline Law Alerts and Analysis

A March 8, 2016 trial date was set for the 28 criminal charges against PG&E in the wake of the San Bruno explosion. The company faces a fine of up to $1.13 billion if convicted on the charges. In addition, PG&E faces a fine of $1.4 billion that could be imposed by the state Public Utilities Commission to punish the utility for its role in the explosion. The PUC has yet to set a date for a final decision on that matter. PG&E has consistently stated that its employees acted in good faith and has denied that any employees intentionally violated the federal pipeline safety code.