The U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is offering the Pipeline Emergency Response Grant (PERG) for Fiscal Year 2025, with the aim to enhance training for emergency responders dealing with pipeline incidents in high consequence areas. The program, authorized under 49 U.S.C. § 60125(b), allocates approximately $3.2 million, with individual grants capped at $250,000. Eligible applicants include state, county, and local governments, focusing on activities like emergency response training and planning, specifically tailored toward protecting communities from hazardous materials incidents. Applications are due by March 3, 2025, and must outline training costs, location, participant details, and a clear project timeline. The proposal should prioritize safety, equity, and training for underserved communities. Successful applicants will be selected based on criteria that emphasize their technical and programmatic capabilities, including the clarity of their training objectives and the potential impact on enhancing pipeline safety. The funding is discretionary, meaning PHMSA may fund all or part of the application based on quality and alignment with departmental priorities. Overall, the PERG program aims to advance public safety and environmental protection by bolstering the preparedness of emergency responders across various jurisdictions.

The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) outlines its Standard Title VI/Non-Discrimination Assurances, mandating compliance with federal non-discrimination laws as a prerequisite for receiving financial assistance under the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The document emphasizes the prohibition of discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, and disability across all federally-assisted programs. It details the responsibilities of the Recipient, requiring adherence to numerous statutes, such as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Recipient must ensure equitable access to their programs, include non-discrimination clauses in contracts, and allow for federal audits and compliance reviews. Specific assurances include notifying potential subcontractors of their obligations and maintaining records for scrutiny. The assurances extend throughout the duration of federally funded projects and require comprehensive reporting and monitoring to uphold non-discriminatory practices. This document establishes a strong framework to enforce civil rights protections within transportation-related programs, showcasing USDOT's commitment to equal opportunity and compliance with federal laws.