LNG By Rail Rule Suspension

The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) is suspending a rule that allows liquefied natural gas (LNG) to be transported by rail in specialized tank cars, starting 31 October 2023. This final rule overturns a Trump-era rule that allowed for the bulk transport of LNG by rail. The USDOT took these actions through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

For decades, LNG and cryogenic liquids similar to LNG have been transported by highway and rail respectively within the United States. However, the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) did not authorize the bulk transport of LNG in rail tank cars, except by special permit.