BOSTON (AP) - Top Statehouse Democrats say they’re hoping to pass legislation aimed at improving natural gas infrastructure safety before the end of the year.
Republican Gov. Charlie Baker filed the bill. On Monday, he met with Senate President Karen Spilka and House Speaker Robert DeLeo to discuss the proposal and ongoing efforts to restore gas service in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover.
A Statehouse hearing is also planned Tuesday on natural gas safety.
Baker’s bill would require natural gas projects be reviewed by a certified professional engineer. The bill follows the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation into the natural gas explosions and fires that rocked three Merrimack Valley communities in September.
The explosions killed one teen, injured about two dozen, damaged more than 100 structures and left thousands without heat or hot water.
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