CHAPTER 60—NATURAL GAS POLICY

        

SUBCHAPTER I—WELLHEAD PRICING

        

SUBCHAPTER II—INCREMENTAL PRICING

        

SUBCHAPTER III—ADDITIONAL AUTHORITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Part A—Emergency Authority

        

Part B—Other Authorities and Requirements

        

SUBCHAPTER IV—NATURAL GAS CURTAILMENT POLICIES

        

SUBCHAPTER V—ADMINISTRATION, ENFORCEMENT, AND REVIEW

        

SUBCHAPTER VI—COORDINATION WITH NATURAL GAS ACT; MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

        

§3301. Definitions

For purposes of this chapter—

(1) Natural gas

The term "natural gas" means either natural gas unmixed, or any mixture of natural and artificial gas.

(2) Well

The term "well" means any well for the discovery or production of natural gas, crude oil, or both.

(3) New well

The term "new well" means any well—

(A) the surface drilling of which began on or after February 19, 1977; or

(B) the depth of which was increased, by means of drilling on or after February 19, 1977, to a completion location which is located at least 1,000 feet below the depth of the deepest completion location of such well attained before February 19, 1977.

(4) Old well

The term "old well" means any well other than a new well.

(5) Marker well

(A) General rule

The term "marker well" means any well from which natural gas was produced in commercial quantities at any time after January 1, 1970, and before April 20, 1977.

(B) New wells

The term "marker well" does not include any new well under paragraph (3)(A) but includes any new well under paragraph (3)(B) if such well qualifies as a marker well under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(6) Reservoir

The term "reservoir" means any producible natural accumulation of natural gas, crude oil, or both, confined—

(A) by impermeable rock or water barriers and characterized by a single natural pressure system; or

(B) by lithologic or structural barriers which prevent pressure communication.

(7) Completion location

(A) General rule

The term "completion location" means any subsurface location from which natural gas is being or has been produced in commercial quantities.

(B) Marker well

The term "completion location", when used with reference to any marker well, means any subsurface location from which natural gas was produced from such well in commercial quantities after January 1, 1970, and before April 20, 1977.

(8) Proration unit

The term "proration unit" means—

(A) any portion of a reservoir, as designated by the State or Federal agency having regulatory jurisdiction with respect to production from such reservoir, which will be effectively and efficiently drained by a single well;

(B) any drilling unit, production unit, or comparable arrangement, designated or recognized by the State or Federal agency having jurisdiction with respect to production from the reservoir, to describe that portion of such reservoir which will be effectively and efficiently drained by a single well; or

(C) if such portion of a reservoir, unit, or comparable arrangement is not specifically provided for by State law or by any action of any State or Federal agency having regulatory jurisdiction with respect to production from such reservoir, any voluntary unit agreement or other comparable arrangement applied, under local custom or practice within the locale in which such reservoir is situated, for the purpose of describing the portion of a reservoir which may be effectively and efficiently drained by a single well.

(9) New lease

The term "new lease", when used with respect to the Outer Continental Shelf, means a lease, entered into on or after April 20, 1977, of submerged acreage.

(10) Old lease

The term "old lease", when used with respect to the Outer Continental Shelf, means any lease other than a new lease.

(11) New contract

The term "new contract" means any contract, entered into on or after November 9, 1978, for the first sale of natural gas which was not previously subject to an existing contract.

(12) Rollover contract

The term "rollover contract" means any contract, entered into on or after November 9, 1978, for the first sale of natural gas that was previously subject to an existing contract which expired at the end of a fixed term (not including any extension thereof taking effect on or after November 9, 1978) specified by the provisions of such existing contract, as such contract was in effect on November 9, 1978, whether or not there is an identity of parties or terms with those of such existing contract.

(13) Existing contract

The term "existing contract" means any contract for the first sale of natural gas in effect on November 8, 1978.

(14) Successor to an existing contract

The term "successor to an existing contract" means any contract, other than a rollover contract, entered into on or after November 9, 1978, for the first sale of natural gas which was previously subject to an existing contract, whether or not there is an identity of parties or terms with those of such existing contract.

(15) Interstate pipeline

The term "interstate pipeline" means any person engaged in natural gas transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.].

(16) Intrastate pipeline

The term "intrastate pipeline" means any person engaged in natural gas transportation (not including gathering) which is not subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.] (other than any such pipeline which is not subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission solely by reason of section 1(c) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717(c)]).

(17) Local distribution company

The term "local distribution company" means any person, other than any interstate pipeline or any intrastate pipeline, engaged in the transportation, or local distribution, of natural gas and the sale of natural gas for ultimate consumption.

(18) Committed or dedicated to interstate commerce

(A) General rule

The term "committed or dedicated to interstate commerce", when used with respect to natural gas, means—

(i) natural gas which is from the Outer Continental Shelf; and

(ii) natural gas which, if sold, would be required to be sold in interstate commerce (within the meaning of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.]) under the terms of any contract, any certificate under the Natural Gas Act, or any provision of such Act.

(B) Exclusion

Such term does not apply with respect to—

(i) natural gas sold in interstate commerce (within the meaning of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.])—

(I) under section 6 of the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977;

(II) under any limited term certificate, granted pursuant to section 7 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f], which contains a pregrant of abandonment of service for such natural gas;

(III) under any emergency regulation under the second proviso of section 7(c) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f(c)]; or

(IV) to the user by the producer and transported under any certificate, granted pursuant to section 7(c) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f(c)], if such certificate was specifically granted for the transportation of that natural gas for such user;

(ii) natural gas for which abandonment of service was granted before November 9, 1978, under section 7 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f]; and

(iii) natural gas which, but for this clause, would be committed or dedicated to interstate commerce under subparagraph (A)(ii) by reason of the action of any person (including any successor in interest thereof, other than by means of any reversion of a leasehold interest), if on May 31, 1978—

(I) neither that person, nor any affiliate thereof, had any right to explore for, develop, produce, or sell such natural gas; and

(II) such natural gas was not being sold in interstate commerce (within the meaning of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.]) for resale (other than any sale described in clause (i)(I), (II), or (III)).

(19) Certificated natural gas

The term "certificated natural gas" means natural gas transported by any interstate pipeline in a facility for which there is in effect a certificate issued under section 7(c) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f(c)]. Such term does not include natural gas sold to the user by the producer and transported pursuant to a certificate which is specifically issued under section 7(c) of the Natural Gas Act for the transportation of that natural gas, for such user unless such natural gas is used for the generation of electricity.

(20) Sale

The term "sale" means any sale, exchange, or other transfer for value.

(21) First sale

(A) General rule

The term "first sale" means any sale of any volume of natural gas—

(i) to any interstate pipeline or intrastate pipeline;

(ii) to any local distribution company;

(iii) to any person for use by such person;

(iv) which precedes any sale described in clauses (i), (ii), or (iii); and

(v) which precedes or follows any sale described in clauses (i), (ii), (iii), or (iv) and is defined by the Commission as a first sale in order to prevent circumvention of any maximum lawful price established under this chapter.

(B) Certain sales not included

Clauses (i), (ii), (iii), or (iv) of subparagraph (A) shall not include the sale of any volume of natural gas by any interstate pipeline, intrastate pipeline, or local distribution company, or any affiliate thereof, unless such sale is attributable to volumes of natural gas produced by such interstate pipeline, intrastate pipeline, or local distribution company, or any affiliate thereof.

(22) Deliver

The term "deliver", when used with respect to any first sale of natural gas, means the physical delivery from the seller; except that in the case of the sale of proven reserves in place to any interstate pipeline, any intrastate pipeline, any local distribution company, or any user of such natural gas, such term means the transfer of title to such reserves.

(23) Certificate

The term "certificate", when used with respect to the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.], means a certificate of public convenience and necessity issued under such Act.

(24) Commission

The term "Commission" means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

(25) Federal agency

The term "Federal agency" has the same meaning as given such term in section 105 of title 5.

(26) Person

The term "person" includes the United States, any State, and any political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality of the foregoing.

(27) Affiliate

The term "affiliate", when used in relation to any person, means another person which controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such person.

(28) Electric utility

The term "electric utility" means any person to the extent such person is engaged in the business of the generation of electricity and sale, directly or indirectly, of electricity to the public.

(29) Mcf

The term "Mcf", when used with respect to natural gas, means 1,000 cubic feet of natural gas measured at a pressure of 14.73 pounds per square inch (absolute) and a temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

(30) Btu

The term "Btu" means British thermal unit.

(31) Month

The term "month" means a calendar month.

(32) Mile

The term "mile" means a statute mile of 5,280 feet.

(33) United States

The term "United States" means the several States and includes the Outer Continental Shelf.

(34) State

The term "State" means each of the several States and the District of Columbia.

(35) Outer Continental Shelf

The term "Outer Continental Shelf" has the same meaning as such term has under section 1331(a) of title 43.

(36) Prudhoe Bay Unit of Alaska

The term "Prudhoe Bay Unit of Alaska" means the geographic area subject to the voluntary unit agreement approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Alaska on June 2, 1977, and referred to as the "affected area" in Conservation Order No. 145 of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Committee, Division of Oil and Gas Conservation, Department of Natural Resources of the State of Alaska, as such order was in effect on June 1, 1977, and determined without regard to any adjustments in the description of the affected area permitted to be made under such order.

(37) Antitrust laws

The term "Federal antitrust laws" means the Sherman Act (15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.), the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12, 13, 14–19, 20, 21, 22–27), the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.), sections 73 and 74 of the Wilson Tariff Act (15 U.S.C. 8–9), and the Act of June 19, 1936, chapter 592 (15 U.S.C. 13, 13a, 13b, and 21a).

(Pub. L. 95–621, §2, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3352.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, and such Act, referred to in pars. (15), (16), (18)(A)(ii), (B)(i), (iii)(II), (23), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

Section 6 of the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977, referred to in par. (18)(B)(i)(I), is Pub. L. 95–2, §6, Feb. 2, 1977, 91 Stat. 7, which was formerly set out in a note under section 717 of this title.

The Sherman Act (15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.), referred to in par. (37), is act July 2, 1890, ch. 647, 26 Stat. 209, which is classified to sections 1 to 7 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1 of this title and Tables.

The Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12, 13, 14–19, 20, 21, 22–27), referred to in par. (37), is act Oct. 15, 1914, ch. 323, 38 Stat. 730, which is classified generally to sections 12, 13, 14 to 19, 21, and 22 to 27 of this title, and sections 52 and 53 of Title 29, Labor. For further details and complete classification of this Act to the Code, see References in Text note set out under section 12 of this title and Tables.

The Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.), referred to in par. (37), is act Sept. 26, 1914, ch. 311, 38 Stat. 717, which is classified generally to subchapter I (§41 et seq.) of chapter 2 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 58 of this title and Tables.

Act of June 19, 1936, chapter 592, referred to in par. (37), means act June 19, 1936, ch. 592, 49 Stat. 1526, popularly known as the Robinson-Patman Antidiscrimination Act and also as the Robinson-Patman Price Discrimination Act, which enacted sections 13a, 13b, and 21a of this title and amended section 13 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 13 of this title and Tables.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 1989 Amendment

Pub. L. 101–60, §1, July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 157, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 3331, 3372, 3373, 3375, 3411, 3412, 3414, 3416, 3431, and 3432 of this title, repealing sections 3311 to 3320, 3331 to 3333, 3413, and 3417 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 3311 and 3372 of this title] may be cited as the 'Natural Gas Wellhead Decontrol Act of 1989'."

Short Title

Pub. L. 95–621, §1, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3351, provided that: "This Act [enacting this chapter and amending section 7255 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare] may be cited as the 'Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978'."

SUBCHAPTER I—WELLHEAD PRICING

§§3311 to 3333. Repealed. Pub. L. 101–60, §2(b), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158

Sections 3311 to 3320 comprised part A of this subchapter.

Section 3311, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §101, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3356, related to inflation adjustments and other general price ceiling rules to be applied in establishing wellhead price controls.

Section 3312, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §102, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3358; Pub. L. 102–154, title I, Nov. 13, 1991, 105 Stat. 1000, related to ceiling price for new natural gas and certain gas produced from Outer Continental Shelf.

Section 3313, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §103, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3361, related to ceiling price for new, onshore production wells.

Section 3314, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §104, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3362, related to a ceiling price for sales of natural gas dedicated to interstate commerce.

Section 3315, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §105, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3363, related to ceiling price for sales under intrastate contracts existing on Nov. 8, 1978.

Section 3316, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §106, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3365, related to ceiling price for sales under rollover contracts.

Section 3317, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §107, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3366, related to ceiling price for high-cost natural gas.

Section 3318, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §108, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3367, related to ceiling price for stripper well natural gas.

Section 3319, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §109, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3368, related to ceiling price for other categories of natural gas.

Section 3320, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §110, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3368, related to treatment of State severance taxes and certain production-related costs.

Sections 3331 to 3333 comprised part B of this subchapter.

Section 3331, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §121, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3369; Pub. L. 101–60, §2(a), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 157, provided for elimination of price controls for certain natural gas sales.

Section 3332, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §122, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3370, related to standby price control authority.

Section 3333, Pub. L. 95–621, title I, §123, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3371, related to reports to Congress by Department of Energy.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Section 2(b) of Pub. L. 101–60 provided that the repeal of sections 3311 to 3320 and 3331 to 3333 is effective Jan. 1, 1993.

SUBCHAPTER II—INCREMENTAL PRICING

§§3341 to 3348. Repealed. Pub. L. 100–42, §2(a), May 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 314

Section 3341, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §201, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3371, required Commission to prescribe and make effective a rule designed to provide for passthrough of costs of natural gas, with respect to boiler fuel use of natural gas by industrial boiler fuel facilities, not later than 12 months after Nov. 9, 1978.

Section 3342, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §202, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3372, required Commission to prescribe an amendment to rule required under section 3341 of this title, which would expand its application to other industrial uses, not later than 18 months after Nov. 9, 1978.

Section 3343, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §203, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3373, enumerated acquisition costs subject to passthrough requirements of rule prescribed under section 3341 of this title.

Section 3344, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §204, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3375, related to method of passthrough.

Section 3345, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §205, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3378, related to direct passthrough of surcharges paid by local distributors on natural gas delivered by interstate pipelines to industrial facilities served by such local distributors.

Section 3346, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §206, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3379, enumerated exemptions from application of rule required under section 3341 of this title.

Section 3347, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §207, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3380, related to application of section 3343 to certain natural gas and liquefied natural gas imports.

Section 3348, Pub. L. 95–621, title II, §208, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3381, directed that Alaska natural gas be allocated to rates and charges of interstate pipelines in accordance with certain general principles applicable on Nov. 9, 1978, for establishing rates.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Repeal of Incremental Pricing Requirements

Pub. L. 100–42, §2, May 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 314, provided that:

"(a) Repeal.—Subject to subsections (b) and (c) of this section, title II of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 (15 U.S.C. 3341–3348) is repealed, and the items relating to title II are stricken from the table of contents of that Act.

"(b) Limited Continuing Effect of Rules.—A rule promulgated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, under title II of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 shall continue in effect only with respect to the flowthrough of costs incurred before the enactment of this section [May 21, 1987], including any surcharges based on such costs.

"(c) Implementation.—The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission may take appropriate action to implement this section."

SUBCHAPTER III—ADDITIONAL AUTHORITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Part A—Emergency Authority

§3361. Declaration of emergency

(a) Presidential declaration

The President may declare a natural gas supply emergency (or extend a previously declared emergency) if he finds that—

(1) a severe natural gas shortage, endangering the supply of natural gas for high-priority uses, exists or is imminent in the United States or in any region thereof; and

(2) the exercise of authorities under section 3362 or section 3363 of this title is reasonably necessary, having exhausted other alternatives to the maximum extent practicable, to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses.

(b) Limitation

(1) Expiration

Any declaration of a natural gas supply emergency (or extension thereof) under subsection (a), shall terminate at the earlier of—

(A) the date on which the President finds that any shortage described in subsection (a) does not exist or is not imminent; or

(B) 120 days after the date of such declaration of emergency (or extension thereof).

(2) Extensions

Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit the President from extending, under subsection (a), any emergency (or extension thereof), previously declared under subsection (a), upon the expiration of such declaration of emergency (or extension thereof) under paragraph (1)(B).

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §301, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3381.)

Executive Documents

Delegation of Functions

Functions of President under this subchapter, except for authority to declare, extend, and terminate a national gas supply emergency pursuant to this section, delegated to Secretary of Energy, see section 1–101 of Ex. Ord. No. 12235, Sept. 3, 1980, 45 F.R. 58803, set out as a note under section 3364 of this title.

§3362. Emergency purchase authority

(a) Presidential authorization

During any natural gas supply emergency declared under section 3361 of this title, the President may, by rule or order, authorize any interstate pipeline or local distribution company served by any interstate pipeline to contract, upon such terms and conditions as the President determines to be appropriate (including provisions respecting fair and equitable prices), for the purchase of emergency supplies of natural gas—

(1) from any producer of natural gas (other than a producer who is affiliated with the purchaser, as determined by the President) if—

(A) such natural gas is not produced from the Outer Continental Shelf; and

(B) the sale or transportation of such natural gas was not pursuant to a certificate issued under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.] immediately before the date on which such contract was entered into; or

(2) from any intrastate pipeline, local distribution company, or other person (other than an interstate pipeline or a producer of natural gas).

(b) Contract duration

The duration of any contract authorized under subsection (a) may not exceed 4 months. The preceding sentence shall not prohibit the President from authorizing under subsection (a) a renewal of any contract, previously authorized under such subsection, following the expiration of such contract.

(c) Related transportation and facilities

The President may, by order, require any pipeline to transport natural gas, and to construct and operate such facilities for the transportation of natural gas, as he determines necessary to carry out any contract authorized under subsection (a). The costs of any construction or transportation ordered under this subsection shall be paid by the purchaser of natural gas under the contract with respect to which such order is issued. No order to transport natural gas under this subsection shall require any pipeline to transport natural gas in excess of such pipeline's available capacity.

(d) Maintenance of adequate records

The Commission shall require any interstate pipeline or local distribution company contracting under the authority of this section for natural gas to maintain and make available full and adequate records concerning transactions under this section, including records of the volumes of natural gas purchased under the authority of this section and the rates and charges for purchase and receipt of such natural gas.

(e) Special limitation

No sale under any emergency purchase contract under this section for emergency supplies of natural gas for sale and delivery from any intrastate pipeline which is operating under court supervision as of January 1, 1977, may take effect unless the court approves.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §302, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3382.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(1)(B), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

§3363. Emergency allocation authority

(a) In general

In order to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas during any natural gas supply emergency declared under section 3361 of this title, the President may, by order, allocate supplies of natural gas under subsections (b), (c), and (d) to—

(1) any interstate pipeline;

(2) any local distribution company—

(A) which is served by any interstate pipeline;

(B) which is providing natural gas only for high-priority uses; and

(C) which is in need of deliveries of natural gas to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas; and

(3) any person for meeting requirements of high-priority uses of natural gas.

(b) Allocation of certain boiler fuel gas

(1) Required finding

The President shall not allocate supplies of natural gas under this subsection unless he finds that—

(A) to the maximum extent practicable, emergency purchase authority under section 3362 of this title has been utilized to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas;

(B) emergency purchases of natural gas supplies under section 3362 of this title are not likely to satisfy the natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses;

(C) the exercise of authority under this subsection is reasonably necessary to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses; and

(D) any interstate pipeline or local distribution company receiving such natural gas has ordered the termination of all deliveries of natural gas for other than high-priority uses and attempted to to ¹ the maximum extent practicable to terminate such deliveries.

(2) Allocation authority

Subject to paragraph (1), in order to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas, the President may, by order, allocate supplies of natural gas the use of which has been prohibited by the President pursuant to authority under section 717z of this title (relating to the use of natural gas as a boiler fuel during any natural gas supply emergency).

(c) Allocation of general pipeline supply

(1) Required findings

The President shall not allocate supplies of natural gas under this subsection unless he finds that—

(A) to the maximum extent practicable, allocation of supplies of natural gas under subsection (b) has been utilized to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas;

(B) the exercise of such authority is not likely to satisfy the natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses;

(C) the exercise of authority under this subsection is reasonably necessary to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses;

(D) any interstate pipeline or local distribution company receiving such natural gas has ordered the termination of all deliveries of natural gas for other than high-priority uses and attempted to the maximum extent practicable to terminate such deliveries;

(E) such allocation will not create, for the interstate pipeline delivering certificated natural gas, a supply shortage which will cause such pipeline to be unable to meet the natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas served, directly or indirectly, by such pipeline; and

(F) such allocation will not result in a disproportionate share of deliveries and resulting curtailments of natural gas being experienced by such interstate pipeline when compared to deliveries and resulting curtailments which are experienced as a result of orders issued under this subsection applicable to other interstate pipelines (as determined by the President).

(2) Required notification from State

(A) ² Notification

The President shall not allocate supplies of natural gas under this subsection unless he is notified by the Governor of any State that—

(i) a shortage of natural gas supplies available to such State exists or is imminent;

(ii) such shortage or imminent shortage endangers the supply of natural gas for high-priority uses in such State; and

(iii) the exercise of authority under State law is inadequate to protect high-priority uses of natural gas in such State from an interruption in natural gas supplies.

(3) Basis of finding

To the maximum extent practicable, the Governor shall submit, together with any notification under subparagraph (A), information upon which he has based his finding under such subparagraph, including—

(i) volumes of natural gas required to meet the natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas in such State;

(ii) information received from persons in the business of producing, selling, transporting, or delivering natural gas in such State as to the volumes of natural gas supplies available to such State;

(iii) information on the authority under State law which will be exercised to protect high-priority uses; and

(iv) such other information which the President requests or which the Governor determines appropriate to apprise the President of emergency deliveries and transportation of interstate natural gas needed by such State.

(4) Allocation authority

Subject to paragraphs (1), (2), and (5), in order to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas, the President may, by order, allocate supplies of certificated natural gas from any interstate pipeline.

(5) Consideration of alternative fuel availability

In issuing any order under this subsection the President shall consider the relative availability of alternative fuel to natural gas users supplied by the interstate pipeline ordered to make deliveries pursuant to this subsection.

(d) Allocation of user-owned gas

(1) Required finding

The President shall not allocate supplies of natural gas under this subsection unless he finds that—

(A) to the maximum extent practicable, allocation of supplies of natural gas under subsection (c) has been utilized to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas;

(B) the exercise of such authority is not likely to satisfy the natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses;

(C) the exercise of authority under this subsection is reasonably necessary to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for such high-priority uses;

(D) any interstate pipeline or local distribution company receiving such natural gas has ordered the termination of all deliveries of natural gas for other than high-priority uses and attempted to the maximum extent practicable to terminate such deliveries; and

(E) such allocation will not create, for the person who owns and would otherwise use such natural gas, a supply shortage which will cause such person to be unable to satisfy such person's natural gas requirements for high-priority uses.

(2) Allocation authority

Subject to paragraphs (1) and (3), in order to assist in meeting natural gas requirements for high-priority uses of natural gas, the President may, by order, allocate supplies of natural gas which would be certificated natural gas but for the second sentence of section 3301(19) of this title.

(3) Consideration of economic feasibility of alternative fuels

In issuing any order under this subsection, the President shall consider the economic feasibility of alternative fuels available to the user which owned the natural gas subject to an order under this subsection.

(e) Limitation

No order may be issued under this section unless the President determines that such order will not require transportation of natural gas by any pipeline in excess of its available transportation capacity.

(f) Industry assistance

The President may request that representatives of pipelines, local distribution companies, and other persons meet and provide assistance to the President in carrying out his authority under this section.

(g) Compensation

(1) In general

If the parties to any order issued under subsection (b), (c), (d), or (h) fail to agree upon the terms of compensation for natural gas deliveries or transportation required pursuant to such order, the President, after a hearing held either before or after such order takes effect, shall, by supplemental order, prescribe the amount of compensation to be paid for such deliveries or transportation and for any other expenses incurred in delivering or transporting natural gas.

(2) Calculation of compensation for certain boiler fuel natural gas

For purposes of any supplemental order under paragraph (1) with respect to emergency deliveries pursuant to subsection (b), the President shall calculate the amount of compensation—

(A) for supplies of natural gas based upon the amount required to make whole the user subject to the prohibition order, but in no event may such compensation exceed just compensation prescribed in section 717z of this title; and

(B) for transportation, storage, delivery, and other services, based upon reasonable costs, as determined by the President.

(3) Compensation for other natural gas allocated

For the purpose of any supplemental order under paragraph (1), if the party making emergency deliveries pursuant to subsection (c) or (d)—

(A) indicates a preference for compensation in kind, the President shall direct that compensation in kind be provided as expeditiously as practicable;

(B) indicates a preference for compensation, or the President determines that, notwithstanding paragraph (A) of this subsection, any portion thereof cannot practicably be compensated in kind, the President shall calculate the amount of compensation—

(i) for supplies of natural gas, based upon the amount required to make the pipeline and its local distribution companies whole, in the case of any order under subsection (c), or to make the user from whom natural gas is allocated whole, in the case of any order under subsection (d) including any amount actually paid by such pipeline and its local distribution companies or such user for volumes of natural gas or higher cost synthetic gas acquired to replace natural gas subject to an order under subsection (c) or (d); and

(ii) for transportation, storage, delivery, and other services, based upon reasonable costs, as determined by the President. Compensation received by an interstate pipeline under this subsection shall be credited to the account of any local distribution company served by that pipeline to the extent ordered by the President to make such local distribution company whole.

(h) Related transportation and facilities

The President may, by order, require any pipeline to transport natural gas, and to construct and operate such facilities for the transportation of natural gas, as he determines necessary to carry out any order under subsection (b), (c), or (d). Compensation for the costs of any construction or transportation ordered under this subsection shall be determined under subsection (g) and shall be paid by the person to whom supplies of natural gas are ordered allocated under this section.

(i) Monitoring

In order to effect the purposes of this part, the President shall monitor the operation of any order made pursuant to this section to assure that natural gas delivered pursuant to this section is applied to high-priority uses only.

(j) Commission study

Not later than June 1, 1979, the Commission shall prepare and submit to the Congress a report regarding whether authority to allocate natural gas, which is not otherwise subject to allocation under this part, is likely to be necessary to meet high-priority uses.

(k) "High-priority use" defined

For purposes of this section, the term "high-priority use" means any—

(1) use of natural gas in a residence;

(2) use of natural gas in a commercial establishment in amounts less than 50 Mcf on a peak day; or

(3) any use of natural gas the curtailment of which the President determines would endanger life, health, or maintenance of physical property.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §303, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3383.)

¹ So in original.

² So in original. Par. (2) enacted without a subpar. (B).

§3364. Miscellaneous provisions

(a) Information

(1) Obtaining of information

In order to obtain information to carry out his authority under this part, the President may—

(A) sign and issue subpenas for the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of books, records, papers, and other documents;

(B) require any person, by general or special order, to submit answers in writing to interrogatories, requests for reports or for other information, and such answers shall be made within such reasonable period, and under oath or otherwise as the President may determine; and

(c) ¹ secure, upon request, any information from any Federal agency.

(2) Enforcement of subpenas and orders

The appropriate United States district court may, upon petition of the Attorney General at the request of the President, in the case of refusal to obey a subpena or order of the President issued under this subsection, issue an order requiring compliance therewith, and any failure to obey an order of the court may be punished by the court as a contempt thereof.

(b) Reporting of prices and volumes

In issuing any order under section 3362 or 3363 of this title, the President shall require that the prices and volumes of natural gas delivered, transported, or contracted for pursuant to such order shall be reported to him on a weekly basis. Such reports shall be made available to the Congress.

(c) Presidential reports to Congress

The President shall report to the Congress, not later than 90 days following the termination under section 3361(b) of this title of any declaration of a natural gas supply emergency (or extension thereof) under section 3361(a) of this title, respecting the exercise of authority under section 3361, 3362, 3363 of this title, or this section.

(d) Delegation of authorities

The President may delegate all or any portion of the authority granted to him under section 3361, 3362, 3363 of this title, or this section to such Federal officers or agencies as he determines appropriate, and may authorize such redelegation as may be appropriate. Except with respect to section 552 of title 5, any Federal officer or agency to which authority is delegated or redelegated under this subsection shall be subject only to such procedural requirements respecting the exercise of such authority as the President would be subject to if such authority were not so delegated.

(e) Antitrust protections

(1) Defenses

There shall be available as a defense for any person to civil or criminal action brought for violation of the Federal antitrust laws (or any similar law of any State) with respect to any action taken, or meeting held, pursuant to any order of the President under section 3363(b), (c), (d), or (i) of this title, or any meeting held pursuant to a request of the President under section 3363(g) of this title, if—

(A) such action was taken or meeting held solely for the purpose of complying with the President's request or order;

(B) such action was not taken for the purpose of injuring competition; and

(C) any such meeting complied with the requirements of paragraph (2).

Persons interposing the defense provided by this subsection shall have the burden of proof, except that the burden shall be on the person against whom the defense is asserted with respect to whether the actions were taken for the purpose of injuring competition.

(2) Requirements of meetings

With respect to any meeting held pursuant to a request by the President under section 3363(g) of this title or pursuant to an order under section 3363 of this title—

(A) there shall be present at such meeting a full-time Federal employee designated for such purposes by the Attorney General;

(B) a full and complete record of such meeting shall be taken and deposited, together with any agreements resulting therefrom, with the Attorney General, who shall make it available for public inspection and copying;

(C) the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission shall have the opportunity to participate from the beginning in the development and carrying out of agreements and actions under section 3363 of this title, in order to propose any alternative which would avoid or overcome, to the greatest extent practicable, possible anticompetitive effects while achieving substantially the purposes of section 3363 of this title and any order thereunder; and

(D) such other procedures as may be specified by the President in such request or order shall be complied with.

(f) Effect on certain contractual obligations

There shall be available as a defense to any action brought for breach of contract under Federal or State Law arising out of any act or omission that such act was taken or that such omission occurred for purposes of complying with any order issued under section 3363 of this title.

(g) Preemption

Any order issued pursuant to this subchapter shall preempt any provision of any program for the allocation, emergency delivery, transportation, or purchase of natural gas established by any State or local government if such program is in conflict with any such order.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §304, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3387.)

Executive Documents

Ex. Ord. No. 12235. Assignment of Management Responsibility in Cases of Natural Gas Emergencies

Ex. Ord. No. 12235, Sept. 3, 1980, 45 F.R. 58803, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and statutes of the United States of America, including Section 304(d) of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 (92 Stat. 3387; 15 U.S.C. 3364(d)) and Section 301 of Title 3 of the United States Code, and in order to assign management responsibility in case of a natural gas supply emergency, it is hereby ordered as follows:

1–101. The functions vested in the President by Sections 301 through 304(c) of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 (92 Stat. 3381–3387; 15 U.S.C. 3361–3364(c)) are delegated to the Secretary of Energy; except for the authority to declare, extend, and terminate a natural gas supply emergency pursuant to Section 301 thereof (15 U.S.C. 3361).

1–102. The functions vested in the President by Section 607 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (92 Stat. 3171; 15 U.S.C. 717z) are delegated to the Secretary of Energy; except for the authority to declare, extend, and terminate a natural gas supply emergency pursuant to Section 607(a) and (b) thereof (15 U.S.C. 717z(a) and (b)).

1–103. The Secretary shall consult with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Director [now Administrator] of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the heads of other executive agencies in exercising the functions delegated to him by this Order.

1–104. All functions delegated to the Secretary by this Order may be redelegated, in whole or in part, to the head of any other agency.

1–105. All Executive agencies shall, to the extent permitted by law, cooperate with and assist the Secretary in carrying out the functions delegated to him by this Order.

Jimmy Carter.      

¹ So in original. Probably should be "(C)".

Part B—Other Authorities and Requirements

§3371. Authorization of certain sales and transportation

(a) Commission approval of transportation

(1) Interstate pipelines

(A) In general

The Commission may, by rule or order, authorize any interstate pipeline to transport natural gas on behalf of—

(i) any intrastate pipeline; and

(ii) any local distribution company.

(B) Just and reasonable rates

The rates and charges of any interstate pipeline with respect to any transportation authorized under subparagraph (A) shall be just and reasonable (within the meaning of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.]).

(2) Intrastate pipelines

(A) In general

The Commission may, by rule or order, authorize any intrastate pipeline to transport natural gas on behalf of—

(i) any interstate pipeline; and

(ii) any local distribution company served by any interstate pipeline.

(B) Rates and charges

(i) Maximum fair and equitable price

The rates and charges of any intrastate pipeline with respect to any transportation authorized under subparagraph (A), including any amount computed in accordance with the rule prescribed under clause (ii), shall be fair and equitable and may not exceed an amount which is reasonably comparable to the rates and charges which interstate pipelines would be permitted to charge for providing similar transportation service.

(ii) Commission rule

The Commission shall, by rule, establish the method for calculating an amount necessary to—

(I) reasonably compensate any intrastate pipeline for expenses incurred by the pipeline and associated with the providing of any gathering, treatment, processing, transportation, delivery, or similar service provided by such pipeline in connection with any transportation of natural gas authorized under subparagraph (A); and

(II) provide an opportunity for such pipeline to earn a reasonable profit on such services.

(b) Commission approval of sales

(1) In general

The Commission may, by rule or order, authorize any intrastate pipeline to sell natural gas to—

(A) any interstate pipeline; and

(B) any local distribution company served by any interstate pipeline.

(2) Rates and charges

(A) Maximum fair and equitable price

The rates and charges of any intrastate pipeline with respect to any sale of natural gas authorized under paragraph (1) shall be fair and equitable and may not exceed the sum of—

(i) such intrastate pipeline's weighted average acquisition cost of natural gas;

(ii) an amount, computed in accordance with the rule prescribed under subparagraph (B); and

(iii) any adjustment permitted under subparagraph (C).

(B) Commission rule

The Commission shall, by rule, establish the method for calculating an amount necessary to—

(i) reasonably compensate any intrastate pipeline for expenses incurred by the pipeline and associated with the providing of any gathering, treatment, processing, transportation, or delivery service provided by such pipeline in connection with any sale of natural gas authorized under paragraph (1); and

(ii) provide an opportunity for such pipeline to earn a reasonable profit on such services.

(C) Adjustment

(i) Application

This subparagraph shall apply in any case in which, in order to deliver any volume of natural gas pursuant to any sale authorized under paragraph (1), any intrastate pipeline acquires quantities of natural gas under any existing contract, if—

(I) such intrastate pipeline acquires any volume of natural gas under such contract in excess of that which such pipeline would otherwise have acquired; and

(II) the price paid for such additional volume of natural gas acquired under such contract is greater than such pipeline's weighted average acquisition cost of natural gas, computed without regard to the acquisition of such additional volume of natural gas.

(ii) Commission adjustment

In any case to which this subparagraph applies, the Commission shall permit an adjustment to the maximum fair and equitable price provided under subparagraph (A) to increase the revenue to the intrastate pipeline under such sale by an amount determined by the Commission to be adequate to offset the additional cost incurred by such pipeline due to any increase in such pipeline's weighted average acquisition cost of natural gas.

(3) Limitation

(A) Two-year duration

No authorization of any sale (or any extension thereof) under paragraph (1) may be for a period exceeding two years.

(B) Extension

Any authorization of any sale under paragraph (1), and any extension of any such authorization under this subparagraph, may be extended by the Commission if such extension satisfies the requirements of this subsection.

(4) Adequacy of service to intrastate customers

Any sale authorized under paragraph (1) shall be subject to interruption to the extent that natural gas subject to such sale is required to enable the intrastate pipeline involved to provide adequate service to such pipeline's customers at the time of such sale.

(5) Procedural requirements

(A) Affidavit

Any application for authorization of any sale under paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by an affidavit filed by the intrastate pipeline involved and setting forth—

(i) the identity of the interstate pipeline or local distribution company involved;

(ii) each point of delivery of the natural gas from the intrastate pipeline;

(iii) the estimated total and daily volumes of natural gas subject to such sale;

(iv) the price or prices of such volumes; and

(v) such other information as the Commission may, by rule, require.

(B) Verification of compliance

Any application for authorization of any sale under paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by a statement by the intrastate pipeline involved verifying by oath or affirmation that such sale, if authorized, would comply with all requirements applicable to such sale under this subsection and all terms and conditions established, by rule or order, by the Commission and applicable to such sale.

(6) Termination of sales

(A) Hearing

Upon complaint of any interested person, or upon the Commission's own motion, the Commission shall, after affording an opportunity for oral presentation of views and arguments, terminate any sale authorized under paragraph (1) if the Commission determines—

(i) such termination is required to enable the intrastate pipeline involved to provide adequate service to the customers of such pipeline at the time of such sale;

(ii) such sale involves the sale of natural gas acquired by the intrastate pipeline involved solely or primarily for the purpose of resale of such natural gas pursuant to a sale authorized under paragraph (1);

(iii) such sale violates any requirement of this subsection or any term or condition established, by rule or order, by the Commission and applicable to such sale; or

(iv) such sale circumvents or violates any provision of this chapter.

(B) Suspension pending hearing

Prior to any hearing or determination required under subparagraph (A), upon complaint of any interested person or upon the Commission's own motion, the Commission may suspend any sale authorized under paragraph (1) if the Commission finds that it is likely that the determinations described in subparagraph (A) will be made following the hearing required under subparagraph (A).

(C) Determination

The determination of whether any interruption of any sale authorized under paragraph (1) is required under subparagraph (A)(i) shall be made by the Commission without regard to the character of the use of natural gas by any customer of the intrastate pipeline involved.

(D) State intervention

Any interested State may intervene as a matter of right in any proceeding before the Commission relating to any determination under this section.

(7) Disapproval of application

The Commission shall disapprove any application for authorization of any sale under paragraph (1) if the Commission determines—

(A) such sale would impair the ability of the intrastate pipeline involved to provide adequate service to its customers at the time of such sale (without regard to the character of the use of natural gas by such customer);

(B) such sale would involve the sale of natural gas acquired by the intrastate pipeline involved solely or primarily for the purpose of resale of such natural gas pursuant to a sale authorized under paragraph (1);

(C) such sale would violate any requirement of this subsection or any term or condition established, by rule or order, by the Commission and applicable to such sale; or

(D) such sale would circumvent or violate any provision of this chapter.

(c) Terms and conditions

Any authorization granted under this section shall be under such terms and conditions as the Commission may prescribe.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §311, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3388.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(1)(B), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

§3372. Assignment of contractual rights to receive surplus natural gas

(a) Authorization of assignments

The Commission may, by rule or order, authorize any intrastate pipeline to assign, without compensation, to any interstate pipeline or local distribution company all or any portion of such intrastate pipeline's right to receive surplus natural gas at any first sale, upon such terms and conditions as the Commission determines appropriate.

(b) Effect of authorization under subsection (a)

For the effect of an authorization under subsection (a), see section 3431 of this title (relating to the coordination of this chapter with the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.]).

(c) Surplus natural gas

For purposes of this section, the term "surplus natural gas" means any natural gas which is determined, by the State agency having regulatory jurisdiction over the intrastate pipeline which would be entitled to receive such natural gas in the absence of any assignment to exceed the then current demands on such pipeline for natural gas.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §312, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3392; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(2), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsec. (b), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

Amendments

1989—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 101–60 substituted "any natural gas" for "any natural gas—

"(1) which is not committed or dedicated to interstate commerce on November 8, 1978;

"(2) the first sale of which is subject to a maximum lawful price established under subchapter I of this chapter; and

"(3)".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1989 Amendment

Section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60 provided in part that the amendment by section 3(b)(2) of Pub. L. 101–60 is effective Jan. 1, 1993.

§3373. Effect of certain natural gas prices on indefinite price escalator clauses

(a) High-cost natural gas

No price paid in any first sale of high-cost natural gas (as defined in section 3317(c) ¹ of this title, as such section was in effect on January 1, 1989) may be taken into account in applying any indefinite price escalator clause (as defined in section 3315(b)(3)(B) ¹ of this title, as such section was in effect on January 1, 1989) with respect to any first sale of any natural gas other than high-cost natural gas (as defined in section 3317(c) ¹ of this title, as such section was in effect on January 1, 1989).

(b) Other transactions

No price paid—

(1) in any sale authorized under section 3362(a) of this title, or

(2) pursuant to any order issued under section 3363(b), (c), (d), or (g) of this title,

may be taken into account in applying any indefinite price escalator clause (as defined in section 3315(b)(3)(B) ¹ of this title, as such section was in effect on January 1, 1989).

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §313, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3392; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(3), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 159.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Sections 3315 and 3317 of this title, referred to in text, were repealed effective Jan. 1, 1993, by Pub. L. 101–60, §2(b), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158.

Amendments

1989—Pub. L. 101–60 inserted ", as such section was in effect on January 1, 1989" in four places.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1989 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 101–60 effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60, set out as a note under section 3372 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§3374. Clauses prohibiting certain sales, transportation, and commingling

(a) General rule

Any provision of any contract for the first sale of natural gas is hereby declared against public policy and unenforceable with respect to any natural gas covered by this chapter if such provision—

(1) prohibits the commingling of natural gas subject to such contract with natural gas subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission under the provisions of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.];

(2) prohibits the sale of any natural gas subject to such contract to, or transportation of any such natural gas by, any person subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.], or otherwise prohibits the sale or transportation in interstate commerce (within the meaning of the Natural Gas Act) of natural gas subject to such contract; or

(3) terminates, or grants any party the option to terminate, any obligation under any such contract as a result of such commingling, sale, or transportation.

(b) Natural gas covered by this chapter

For purposes of subsection (a), the term "natural gas covered by this chapter" means—

(1) natural gas which is not committed or dedicated to interstate commerce as of November 8, 1978;

(2) natural gas, the sale in interstate commerce of which—

(A) is authorized under section 3362(a) or 3371(b) of this title; or

(B) is pursuant to an assignment under section 3372(a) of this title; and,

(3) natural gas, the transportation in interstate commerce of which is—

(A) pursuant to any order under section 3362(c) or section 3363(b), (c), (d), or (h) of this title; or

(B) authorized by the Commission under section 3371(a) of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §314, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3392.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(1), (2), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

§3375. Filing of contracts and agreements

The Commission may, by rule or order, require any first sale purchaser of natural gas under a new contract, a successor to an existing contract, or a rollover contract to file with the Commission a copy of such contract, together with all ancillary agreements and any existing contract applicable to such natural gas.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title III, §315, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3393; Pub. L. 100–439, §§1, 2(a), (b)(1), Sept. 22, 1988, 102 Stat. 1720; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(2), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1989—Pub. L. 101–60, in section catchline, substituted "Filing of contracts and agreements" for "Contract duration; filing of contracts and agreements", and in text, struck out subsec. (a) designation, heading "Contract duration", and text relating to power of Commissioner to specify minimum duration of contracts for purchase of natural gas and requiring nondiscriminatory exercise of such authority, and struck out subsec. (b) designation and heading "Filing of contracts and ancillary agreements".

1988—Pub. L. 100–439, §2(b)(1), struck out "right of first refusal;" after "Contract duration;" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 100–439, §1, struck out last sentence which directed that provisions of par. (1) did not apply to contracts of natural gas subject to requirements of par. (3).

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 100–439, §1, struck out par. (3) which related to contracts for purchase of natural gas produced from reservoirs on Outer Continental Shelf.

Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 100–439, §2(a), redesignated subsec. (c) as (b) and struck out former subsec. (b) which related to certain rights of first refusal with respect to certain natural gas committed or dedicated to interstate commerce on November 8, 1978.

SUBCHAPTER IV—NATURAL GAS CURTAILMENT POLICIES

§3391. Natural gas for essential agricultural uses

(a) General rule

Not later than 120 days after November 9, 1978, the Secretary of Energy shall prescribe and make effective a rule, which may be amended from time to time, which provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of law (other than subsection (b)) and to the maximum extent practicable, no curtailment plan of an interstate pipeline may provide for curtailment of deliveries of natural gas for any essential agricultural use, unless such curtailment—

(1) does not reduce the quantity of natural gas delivered for such use below the use requirement specified in subsection (c); or

(2) is necessary in order to meet the requirements of high-priority users.

(b) Curtailment priority not applicable if alternative fuel available

If the Commission, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, determines, by rule or order, that use of a fuel (other than natural gas) is economically practicable and that the fuel is reasonably available as an alternative for any agricultural use of natural gas, the provisions of subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to any curtailment of deliveries for such use.

(c) Determination of essential agricultural use requirements

The Secretary of Agriculture shall certify to the Secretary of Energy and the Commission the natural gas requirements (expressed either as volumes or percentages of use) of persons (or classes thereof) for essential agricultural uses in order to meet the requirements of full food and fiber production.

(d) Authority of Secretary of Agriculture to intervene

The Secretary of Agriculture may intervene as a matter of right in any proceeding before the Commission which is conducted in connection with implementing the requirements of the rule prescribed under subsection (a).

(e) Limitation

The Secretary of Agriculture may not exercise any authority under this section for the purpose of restricting the production of any crop.

(f) Definitions

For purposes of this section—

(1) Essential agricultural use

The term "essential agricultural use", when used with respect to natural gas, means any use of natural gas—

(A) for agricultural production, natural fiber production, natural fiber processing, food processing, food quality maintenance, irrigation pumping, crop drying, or

(B) as a process fuel or feedstock in the production of fertilizer, agricultural chemicals, animal feed, or food,

which the Secretary of Agriculture determines is necessary for full food and fiber production.

(2) High-priority user

The term "high-priority user" means any person who—

(A) uses natural gas in a residence;

(B) uses natural gas in a commercial establishment in amounts of less than 50 Mcf on a peak day;

(C) uses natural gas in any school, hospital, or similar institution; or

(D) uses natural gas in any other use the curtailment of which the Secretary of Energy determines would endanger life, health, or maintenance of physical property.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title IV, §401, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3394.)

§3391a. "Essential agricultural use" defined

For the purposes of section 3391 of this title, the term "essential agricultural use" shall—

(1) include use of natural gas in sugar refining for production of alcohol;

(2) include use of natural gas for agricultural production on set-aside acreage or acreage diverted from the production of a commodity (as provided under the Agricultural Act of 1949 [7 U.S.C. 1421 et seq.]) to be devoted to the production of any commodity for conversion into alcohol or hydrocarbons for use as motor fuel or other fuels; and

(3) for the 5-year period beginning on June 30, 1980, include use of natural gas in the distillation of fuel-grade alcohol from food grains or other biomass by facilities in existence on June 30, 1980, which do not have the installed capability to burn coal lawfully.

(Pub. L. 96–294, title II, §273, June 30, 1980, 94 Stat. 711.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Agricultural Act of 1949, referred to in par. (2), is act Oct. 31, 1949, ch. 792, 63 Stat. 1051, which is classified principally to chapter 35A (§1421 et seq.) of Title 7, Agriculture. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1421 of Title 7 and Tables.

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Biomass Energy and Alcohol Fuels Act of 1980 which is title II of the Energy Security Act, and not as part of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 which comprises this chapter.

§3392. Natural gas for essential industrial process and feedstock uses

(a) General rule

The Secretary of Energy shall prescribe and make effective a rule which provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of law (other than subsection (b)) and to the maximum extent practicable, no interstate pipeline may curtail deliveries of natural gas for any essential industrial process or feedstock use, unless such curtailment—

(1) does not reduce the quantity of natural gas delivered for such use below the use requirement specified in subsection (c);

(2) is necessary in order to meet the requirements of high-priority users; or

(3) is necessary in order to meet the requirements for essential agricultural uses of natural gas for which curtailment priority is established under section 3391 of this title.

(b) Curtailment priority applicable only if alternative fuel not available

The provisions of subsection (a) shall apply with respect to any curtailment of deliveries for any essential industrial process or feedstock use only if the Commission determines that use of a fuel (other than natural gas) is not economically practicable and that no fuel is reasonably available as an alternative for such use.

(c) Determination of essential industrial use requirements

The Secretary of Energy shall determine and certify to the Commission the natural gas requirements (expressed either as volumes or percentages of use) of persons (or classes thereof) for essential industrial process and feedstock uses (other than those referred to in section 3391(f)(1)(B) of this title).

(d) Definitions

For purposes of this section—

(1) Essential industrial process or feedstock use

The term "essential industrial process or feedstock use" means any use of natural gas in an industrial process or as a feedstock which the Secretary determines is essential.

(2) High-priority user

The term "high-priority user" has the same meaning as given such term in section 3391(f)(2) of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title IV, §402, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3395.)

§3393. Establishment and implementation of priorities

(a) Establishment of priorities

The Secretary of Energy shall prescribe the rules under sections 3391 and 3392 of this title pursuant to his authority under the Department of Energy Organization Act [42 U.S.C 7101 et seq.] to establish and review priorities for curtailments under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.].

(b) Implementation of priorities

The Commission shall implement the rules prescribed under sections 3391 and 3392 of this title pursuant to its authority under the Department of Energy Organization Act [42 U.S.C. 7101 et seq.] to establish, review, and enforce curtailments under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.].

(Pub. L. 95–621, title IV, §403, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3396.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Department of Energy Organization Act, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (b), is Pub. L. 95–91, Aug. 4, 1977, 91 Stat. 565, which is classified principally to chapter 84 (§7101 et seq.) of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 7101 of Title 42 and Tables.

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (b), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

§3394. Limitation on revoking or amending certain pre-1969 certificates of public convenience and necessity

(a) General rule

The Commission may not, during the 10-year period beginning on November 9, 1978, revoke or amend any certificate of public convenience and necessity issued before January 1, 1969, under section 7 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f] for the transportation of natural gas owned by any electric utility except upon the application of the person to whom such certificate was issued.

(b) Commission curtailment authority

The limitation under subsection (a) shall not affect the authority of the Commission to enforce any curtailment of deliveries of natural gas under the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.].

(Pub. L. 95–621, title IV, §404, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3396.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsec. (b), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

SUBCHAPTER V—ADMINISTRATION, ENFORCEMENT, AND REVIEW

§3411. General rulemaking authority

(a) In general

Except where expressly provided otherwise, the Commission shall administer this chapter. The Commission, or any other Federal officer or agency in which any function under this chapter is vested or delegated, is authorized to perform any and all acts (including any appropriate enforcement activity), and to prescribe, issue, amend, and rescind such rules and orders as it may find necessary or appropriate to carry out its functions under this chapter.

(b) Authority to define terms

Except where otherwise expressly provided, the Commission is authorized to define, by rule, accounting, technical, and trade terms used in this chapter. Any such definition shall be consistent with the definitions set forth in this chapter.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §501, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3396; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(4), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 159.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1989—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 101–60 struck out subsec. (c) which authorized Commission to delegate to any State agency (with consent of such agency) any of its functions with respect to sections 3315, 3316(b), and 3319(a)(1) and (3) of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1989 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 101–60 effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60, set out as a note under section 3372 of this title.

§3412. Administrative procedure

(a) Administrative Procedure Act

Subject to subsection (b), the provisions of subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5 shall apply to any rule or order issued under this chapter having the applicability and effect of a rule as defined in section 551(4) of title 5; except that sections 554, 556, and 557 of such title 5 shall not apply to any order under such section 3361, 3362, or 3363 of this title.

(b) Opportunity for oral presentations

To the maximum extent practicable, an opportunity for oral presentation of data, views, and arguments shall be afforded with respect to any proposed rule or order described in subsection (a) (other than an order under section 3361, 3362, or 3363 of this title). To the maximum extent practicable, such opportunity shall be afforded before the effective date of such rule or order. Such opportunity shall be afforded no later than 30 days after such date in the case of a waiver of the entire comment period under section 553(d)(3) of title 5, and no later than 45 days after such date in all other cases. A transcript shall be made of any such oral presentation.

(c) Adjustments

The Commission or any other Federal officer or agency authorized to issue rules or orders described in subsection (a) (other than an order under section 3361, 3362, or 3363 of this title) shall, by rule, provide for the making of such adjustments, consistent with the other purposes of this chapter, as may be necessary to prevent special hardship, inequity, or an unfair distribution of burdens. Such rule shall establish procedures which are available to any person for the purpose of seeking an interpretation, modification, or rescission of, exception to, or exemption from, such applicable rules or orders. If any person is aggrieved or adversely affected by the denial of a request for adjustment under the preceding sentence, such person may request a review of such denial by the officer or agency and may obtain judicial review in accordance with section 3416 of this title when such denial becomes final. The officer or agency shall, by rule, establish procedures, including an opportunity for oral presentation of data, views, and arguments, for considering requests for adjustment under this subsection.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §502, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3397; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(3), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1989—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 101–60 struck out subsec. (d) which directed that any determination made under section 3347(c) of this title be made in accordance with procedures applicable to the granting of any authority under the Natural Gas Act to import natural gas or liquefied natural gas (as the case might be).

§3413. Repealed. Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(5), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 159

Section, Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §503, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3397, related to various determinations to be made by State or Federal agencies for qualifying under certain categories of natural gas.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Repeal effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60, set out as an Effective Date of 1989 Amendment note under section 3372 of this title.

§3414. Enforcement

(a) General rule

It shall be unlawful for any person to violate any provision of this chapter or any rule or order under this chapter.

(b) Civil enforcement

(1) In general

Except as provided in paragraph (2), whenever it appears to the Commission that any person is engaged or about to engage in any act or practice which constitutes or will constitute a violation of any provision of this chapter, or of any rule or order thereunder, the Commission may bring an action in the District Court of the United States for the District of Columbia or any other appropriate district court of the United States to enjoin such act or practice and to enforce compliance with this chapter, or any rule or order thereunder.

(2) Enforcement of emergency orders

Whenever it appears to the President that any person has engaged, is engaged, or is about to engage in acts or practices constituting a violation of any order under section 3362 of this title or any order or supplemental order issued under section 3363 of this title, the President may bring a civil action in any appropriate district court of the United States to enjoin such acts or practices.

(3) Repealed. Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(4)(B), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158

(4) Relief available

In any action under paragraph (1) or (2), the court shall, upon a proper showing, issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary or permanent injunction without bond. In any such action, the court may also issue a mandatory injunction commanding any person to comply with any applicable provision of law, rule, or order, or ordering such other legal or equitable relief as the court determines appropriate, including refund or restitution.

(5) Criminal referral

The Commission may transmit such evidence as may be available concerning any acts or practices constituting any possible violations of the Federal antitrust laws to the Attorney General who may institute appropriate criminal proceedings.

(6) Civil penalties

(A) In general

Any person who knowingly violates any provision of this chapter, or any provision of any rule or order under this chapter, shall be subject to—

(i) except as provided in clause (ii) a civil penalty, which the Commission may assess, of not more than $1,000,000 for any one violation; and

(ii) a civil penalty, which the President may assess, of not more than $1,000,000, in the case of any violation of an order under section 3362 of this title or an order or supplemental order under section 3363 of this title.

(B) "Knowing" defined

For purposes of subparagraph (A) the term "knowing" means the having of—

(i) actual knowledge; or

(ii) the constructive knowledge deemed to be possessed by a reasonable individual who acts under similar circumstances.

(C) Each day separate violation

For purposes of this paragraph, in the case of a continuing violation, each day of violation shall constitute a separate violation.

(D) Statute of limitations

No person shall be subject to any civil penalty under this paragraph with respect to any violation occurring more than 3 years before the date on which such person is provided notice of the proposed penalty under subparagraph (E). The preceding sentence shall not apply in any case in which an untrue statement of material fact was made to the Commission or a State or Federal agency by, or acquiesced to by, the violator with respect to the acts or omissions constituting such violation, or if there was omitted a material fact necessary in order to make any statement made by, or acquiesced to by, the violator with respect to such acts or omissions not misleading in light of circumstances under such statement was made.

(E) Assessed by Commission

Before assessing any civil penalty under this paragraph, the Commission shall provide to such person notice of the proposed penalty. Following receipt of notice of the proposed penalty by such person, the Commission shall, by order, asssess ¹ such penalty.

(F) Judicial review

If the civil penalty has not been paid within 60 calendar days after the assessment order has been made under subparagraph (E), the Commission shall institute an action in the appropriate district court of the United States for an order affirming the assessment of the civil penalty. The court shall have authority to review de novo the law and the facts involved, and shall have jurisdiction to enter a judgment enforcing, modifying, and enforcing as so modified, or setting aside in whole or in part, such assessment.

(c) Criminal penalties

(1) Violations of chapter

Except in the case of violations covered under paragraph (3), any person who knowingly and willfully violates any provision of this chapter shall be subject to—

(A) a fine of not more than $1,000,000; or

(B) imprisonment for not more than 5 years; or

(C) both such fine and such imprisonment.

(2) Violation of rules or orders generally

Except in the case of violations covered under paragraph (3), any person who knowingly and willfully violates any rule or order under this chapter (other than an order of the Commission assessing a civil penalty under subsection (b)(4)(E)), shall be subject to a fine of not more than $50,000 for each day on which the offense occurs.

(3) Violations of emergency orders

Any person who knowingly and willfully violates an order under section 3362 of this title or an order or supplemental order under section 3363 of this title shall be fined not more than $50,000 for each violation.

(4) Each day separate violation

For purposes of this subsection, each day of violation shall constitute a separate violation.

(5) "Knowingly" defined

For purposes of this subsection, the term "knowingly", when used with respect to any act or omission by any person, means such person—

(A) had actual knowledge; or

(B) had constructive knowledge deemed to be possessed by a reasonable individual who acts under similar circumstances.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §504, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3401; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(4), (b)(6), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158, 159; Pub. L. 109–58, title III, §314(a)(2), (b)(2), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 690, 691.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2005—Subsec. (b)(6)(A). Pub. L. 109–58, §314(b)(2), substituted "$1,000,000" for "$5,000" in cl. (i) and "$1,000,000" for "$25,000" in cl. (ii).

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 109–58, §314(a)(2)(A), substituted "$1,000,000" for "$5,000" in subpar. (A) and "5 years" for "two years" in subpar. (B).

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 109–58, §314(a)(2)(B), substituted "$50,000 for each day on which the offense occurs" for "$500 for each violation".

1989—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(6), struck out par. (2) designation and par. (1) making it unlawful to sell natural gas at a first sale price in excess of any applicable maximum lawful price under this chapter.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(4), substituted "paragraph (2)" for "paragraphs (2) and (3)" in par. (1), struck out par. (3) which related to enforcement of incremental pricing, and substituted "paragraph (1) or (2)" for "paragraph (1), (2), or (3)" in par. (4).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1989 Amendment

Amendment by section 3(b)(6) of Pub. L. 101–60 effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60, set out as a note under section 3372 of this title.

¹ So in original. Probably should be "assess".

§3415. Intervention

(a) Authority to intervene

(1) Intervention as matter of right

The Secretary of Energy may intervene as a matter of right in any proceeding relating to the prorationing of, or other limitations upon, natural gas production which is conducted by any State agency having regulatory jurisdiction over the production of natural gas.

(2) Enforcement of right to intervene

The Secretary may bring an action in any appropriate court of the United States to enforce his right to intervene under paragraph (1).

(3) Access to information

As an intervenor in a proceeding described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall have access to information available to other parties to the proceeding if such information is relevant to the issues to which his participation in such proceeding relates. Such information may be obtained through reasonable rules relating to discovery of information prescribed by the State agency.

(b) Access to State courts

(1) Review in State courts

The Secretary may obtain review of any determination made in any proceeding described in subsection (a)(1) in the appropriate State court if the Secretary intervened or otherwise participated in the original proceeding or if State law otherwise permits such review.

(2) Participation as amicus curiae

In addition to his authority to obtain review under paragraph (1), the Secretary may also participate an ¹ amicus curiae in any judicial review of any proceeding described in subsection (a)(1).

(Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §505, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3403.)

¹ So in original. Probably should be "as".

§3416. Judicial review

(a) Orders

(1) In general

The provisions of this subsection shall apply to judicial review of any order, within the meaning of section 551(6) of title 5 (other than an order assessing a civil penalty under section 3414(b)(4) of this title or any order under section 3362 of this title or any order under section 3363 of this title), issued under this chapter and to any final agency action under this chapter required to be made on the record after an opportunity for an agency hearing.

(2) Rehearing

Any person aggrieved by any order issued by the Commission in a proceeding under this chapter to which such person is a party may apply for a rehearing within 30 days after the issuance of such order. Any application for rehearing shall set forth the specific ground upon which such application is based. Upon the filing of such application, the Commission may grant or deny the requested rehearing or modify the original order without further hearing. Unless the Commission acts upon such application for rehearing within 30 days after it is filed, such application shall be deemed to have been denied. No person may bring an action under this section to obtain judicial review of any order of the Commission unless—

(A) such person shall have made application to the Commission for rehearing under this subsection; and

(B) the Commission shall have finally acted with respect to such application.

For purposes of this section, if the Commission fails to act within 30 days after the filing of such application, such failure to act shall be deemed final agency action with respect to such application.

(3) Authority to modify orders

At any time before the filing of the record of a proceeding in a United States Court of Appeals, pursuant to paragraph (4), the Commission may, after providing notice it determines reasonable and proper, modify or set aside, in whole or in part, any order issued under the provisions of this chapter.

(4) Judicial review

Any person who is a party to a proceeding under this chapter aggrieved by any final order issued by the Commission in such proceeding may obtain review of such order in the United States Court of Appeals for any circuit in which the party to which such order relates is located or has its principal place of business, or in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia circuit. Review shall be obtained by filing a written petition, requesting that such order be modified or set aside in whole or in part, in such Court of Appeals within 60 days after the final action of the Commission on the application for rehearing required under paragraph (2). A copy of such petition shall forthwith be transmitted by the clerk of such court to any member of the Commission and thereupon the Commission shall file with the court the record upon which the order complained of was entered, as provided in section 2112 of title 28. Upon the filing of such petition such court shall have jurisdiction, which upon the filing of the record with it shall be exclusive, to affirm, modify, or set aside such order in whole or in part. No objection to such order of the Commission shall be considered by the court if such objection was not urged before the Commission in the application for rehearing unless there was reasonable ground for the failure to do so. The finding of the Commission as to the facts, if supported by substantial evidence, shall be conclusive. If any party shall apply to the court for leave to adduce additional evidence, and shall show to the satisfaction of the court that such additional evidence is material and that there were reasonable grounds for failure to adduce such evidence in the proceedings before the Commission, the court may order such additional evidence to be taken before the Commission and to be adduced upon the hearing in such manner and upon such terms and conditions as the court deems proper. The Commission may modify its findings as to the facts by reason of the additional evidence so taken, and shall file with the court such modified or new findings, which if supported by substantial evidence, shall be conclusive. The Commission shall also file with the court its recommendation, if any, for the modification or setting aside of the original order. The judgment and decree of the court, affirming, modifying, or setting aside, in whole or in part, any such order of the Commission, shall be final subject to review by the Supreme Court of the United States upon certiorari or certification as provided in section 1254 of title 28.

(5) Orders remain effective

The filing of an application for rehearing under paragraph (2) shall not, unless specifically ordered by the Commission, operate as a stay of the Commission's order. The commencement of proceedings under paragraph (4) shall not, unless specifically ordered by the court, operate as a stay of the Commission's order.

(b) Review of rules and orders

Except as provided in subsections (a) and (c), judicial review of any rule or order, within the meaning of section 551(4) of title 5, issued under this chapter may be obtained in the United States Court of Appeals for any appropriate circuit pursuant to the provisions of chapter 7 of title 5, except that the second sentence of section 705 thereof shall not apply.

(c) Judicial review of emergency orders

Except with respect to enforcement of orders or subpenas under section 3364(a) of this title, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit shall have exclusive original jurisdiction to review all civil cases and controversies under section 3361, 3362 or 3363 of this title, including any order issued, or other action taken, under such section. The United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit shall have exclusive jurisdiction of all appeals from the district courts of the United States in cases and controversies arising under section 3364(a)(2) of this title; such appeals shall be taken by the filing of a notice of appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit within thirty days after the entry of judgment by the district court. Prior to a final judgment, no court shall have jurisdiction to grant any injunctive relief to stay or defer the implementation of any order issued, or action taken, under section 3361, 3362, or 3363 of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §506, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3404; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(5), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158; Pub. L. 102–572, title I, §102(b), Oct. 29, 1992, 106 Stat. 4506.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1992—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 102–572 substituted "the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit" for "the Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals, established pursuant to section 211(b) of the Economic Stabilization Act of 1970, as amended," before "shall have exclusive original jurisdiction" and substituted "United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit" for "Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals" in two places.

1989—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 101–60 struck out subsec. (d) which related to judicial review of certain incremental pricing determinations.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1992 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 102–572 effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 1101 of Pub. L. 102–572, set out as a note under section 905 of Title 2, The Congress.

§3417. Repealed. Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(6), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158

Section, Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §507, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3406, related to congressional review of Presidential reimposition of maximum lawful prices under section 3332 of this title, congressional reimposition of maximum lawful prices under section 3332 of this title, and congressional disapproval of incremental pricing under section 3342(c) or 3346(d)(2) of this title.

§3418. Applicability of other Federal statutory provisions relating to information-gathering

In order to obtain information for the purpose of carrying out its functions under this chapter, the Commission shall have the same authority as is vested in the Secretary under 7151(a) of title 42 with respect to the exercise of authority under section 796(b) of this title and section 772(b), (c), and (d) of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title V, §508(b), Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3408.)

SUBCHAPTER VI—COORDINATION WITH NATURAL GAS ACT; MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

§3431. Coordination with the Natural Gas Act

(a) Jurisdiction of the Commission under the Natural Gas Act

(1) Sales

(A) Application to first sales

For purposes of section 1(b) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717(b)], the provisions of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.], and the jurisdiction of the Commission under such Act shall not apply to any natural gas solely by reason of any first sale of such natural gas.

(B) Authorized sales or assignments

For purposes of section 1(b) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717(b)], the provisions of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.] and the jurisdiction of the Commission under such Act shall not apply by reason of any sale of natural gas—

(i) authorized under section 3362(a) or 3371(b) of this title; or

(ii) pursuant to any assigned ¹ authorized under section 3372(a) of this title.

(C) Natural-gas company

For purposes of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.], the term "natural-gas company" (as defined in section 2(6) of such Act [15 U.S.C. 717a(6) et seq.]) shall not include any person by reason of, or with respect to, any sale of natural gas if the provisions of the Natural Gas Act and the jurisdiction of the Commission do not apply to such sale solely by reason of subparagraph (A) or (B) of this paragraph.

(2) Transportation

(A) Jurisdiction of the Commission

For purposes of section 1(b) of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717(b)] the provisions of such Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.] and the jurisdiction of the Commission under such Act shall not apply to any transportation in interstate commerce of natural gas if such transportation is—

(i) pursuant to any order under section 3362(c) or section 3363(b), (c), (d), or (h) of this title; or

(ii) authorized by the Commission under section 3371(a) of this title.

(B) Natural-gas company

For purposes of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.], the term "natural-gas company" (as defined in section 2(6) of such Act [15 U.S.C. 717a(6)]) shall not include any person by reason of, or with respect to, any transportation of natural gas if the provisions of the Natural Gas Act and the jurisdiction of the Commission under the Natural Gas Act do not apply to such transportation by reason of subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(b) Charges deemed just and reasonable

(1) Sales

(A) First sales

Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, for purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act, any amount paid in any first sale of natural gas shall be deemed to be just and reasonable.

(B) Emergency sales

For purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717c, 717d], any amount paid in any sale authorized under section 3362(a) of this title shall be deemed to be just and reasonable if such amount does not exceed the fair and equitable price established under such section and applicable to such sale.

(C) Sales by intrastate pipelines

For purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717c, 717d] any amount paid in any sale authorized by the Commission under section 3371(b) of this title shall be deemed to be just and reasonable if such amount does not exceed the fair and equitable price established by the Commission and applicable to such sale.

(D) Assignments

For purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717c, 717d], any amount paid pursuant to the terms of any contract with respect to that portion of which the Commission has authorized an assignment authorized under section 3372(a) of this title shall be deemed to be just and reasonable.

(E) Affiliated entities limitation

For purposes of paragraph (1), in the case of any first sale between any interstate pipeline and any affiliate of such pipeline, any amount paid in any first sale shall be deemed to be just and reasonable if, in addition to satisfying the requirements of such paragraph, such amount does not exceed the amount paid in comparable first sales between persons not affiliated with such interstate pipeline.

(2) Other charges

(A) Allocation

For purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717c, 717d], any amount paid by any interstate pipeline for transportation, storage, delivery or other services provided pursuant to any order under section 3363(b), (c), or (d) of this title shall be deemed to be just and reasonable if such amount is prescribed by the President under section 3363(h)(1) of this title.

(B) Transportation

For purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717c, 717d], any amount paid by any interstate pipeline for any transportation authorized by the Commission under section 3371(a) of this title shall be deemed to be just and reasonable if such amount does not exceed that approved by the Commission under such section.

(c) Guaranteed passthrough

(1) Certificate may not be denied based upon price

The Commission may not deny, or condition the grant of, any certificate under section 7 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717f] based upon the amount paid in any sale of natural gas, if such amount is deemed to be just and reasonable under subsection (b) of this section.

(2) Recovery of just and reasonable prices paid

For purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act [15 U.S.C. 717c, 717d], the Commission may not deny any interstate pipeline recovery of any amount paid with respect to any purchase of natural gas if, under subsection (b) of this section, such amount is deemed to be just and reasonable for purposes of sections 4 and 5 of such Act, except to the extent the Commission determines that the amount paid was excessive due to fraud, abuse, or similar grounds.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title VI, §601, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3409; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(7), (b)(7), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 158, 159.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Natural Gas Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(1), (2)(A), (B), is act June 21, 1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, which is classified generally to chapter 15B (§717 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this act to the Code, see section 717w of this title and Tables.

Amendments

1989—Subsec. (a)(1)(A). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(A), in heading substituted "Application to first sales" for "Natural gas not committed or dedicated" and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "For purposes of section 1(b) of the Natural Gas Act, effective on the first day of the first month beginning after November 9, 1978, the provisions of the Natural Gas Act and the jurisdiction of the Commission under such Act shall not apply to natural gas which was not committed or dedicated to interstate commerce as of November 8, 1978, solely by reason of any first sale of such natural gas."

Subsec. (a)(1)(B). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(B), (C), redesignated subpar. (C) as (B) and struck out former subpar. (B) which related to committed or dedicated natural gas which was high-cost natural gas, new natural gas, or natural gas produced from any new, onshore production well.

Subsec. (a)(1)(C). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(C), (D), redesignated subpar. (D) as (C) and substituted "subparagraph (A) or (B)" for "subparagraph (A), (B), or (C)". Former subpar. (C) redesignated (B).

Subsec. (a)(1)(D). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(C), redesignated subpar. (D) as (C).

Subsec. (a)(1)(E). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(B), struck out subpar. (E), "Certain additional natural gas", which read as follows: "For purposes of section 1(b) of the Natural Gas Act, the provisions of the Natural Gas Act and the jurisdiction of the Commission under such Act shall not apply solely by reason of any first sale of natural gas which is committed or dedicated to interstate commerce as of July 25, 1989, and which is not subject to a maximum lawful price under part A of subchapter I of this chapter by reason of section 3331(f) of this title, effective as of the date such gas ceases to be subject to such maximum lawful price."

Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(7)(A), substituted "Certain additional natural gas" for "Alaskan natural gas" in heading and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Subparagraph (B)(ii) and (iii) shall not apply with respect to natural gas produced from the Prudhoe Bay unit of Alaska and transported through the transportation system approved under the Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Act of 1976."

Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(E), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) read as follows: "Subject to paragraph (4), for purposes of sections 4 and 5 of the Natural Gas Act, any amount paid in any first sale of natural gas shall be deemed to be just and reasonable if—

"(i) such amount does not exceed the applicable maximum lawful price established under subchapter I of this chapter; or

"(ii) there is no applicable maximum lawful price solely by reason of the elimination of price controls pursuant to part B of subchapter I of this chapter."

Subsec. (b)(1)(D). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(7)(F), struck out before period at end "if such amount does not exceed the applicable maximum lawful price established under subchapter I of this chapter".

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 101–60, §3(a)(7)(B), substituted "purchase of natural gas if, under subsection (b) of this section, such amount is deemed to be just and reasonable for purposes of sections 4 and 5 of such Act," for "purchase of natural gas if—

"(A) under subsection (b) of this section, such amount is deemed to be just and reasonable for purposes of sections 4 and 5 of such Act, and

"(B) such recovery is not inconsistent with any requirement of any rule under section 3341 of this title (including any amendment under section 3342 of this title),".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1989 Amendment

Amendment by section 3(b)(7) of Pub. L. 101–60 effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60, set out as a note under section 3372 of this title.

¹ So in original. Probably should be "assignment".

§3432. Effect on State laws

(a) Authority to prescribe maximum lawful prices

Nothing in this chapter shall affect the authority of any State to establish or enforce any maximum lawful price for the first sale of natural gas produced in such State.

(b) Common carriers

No person shall be subject to regulation as a common carrier under any provision of Federal or State law by reason of any transportation—

(1) pursuant to any order under section 3362(c) or section 3363(b), (c), (d), or (i) of this title; or

(2) authorized by the Commission under section 3371(a) of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–621, title VI, §602, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3411; Pub. L. 101–60, §3(b)(8), July 26, 1989, 103 Stat. 159.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1989—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 101–60 struck out "lower" after "prescribe" in heading and struck out before period at end "which does not exceed the applicable maximum lawful price, if any, under subchapter I of this chapter".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1989 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 101–60 effective Jan. 1, 1993, see section 3(b) of Pub. L. 101–60, set out as a note under section 3372 of this title.