Gas companies want pipeline information to stay secret

[eridani]

http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/032007P.shtml

Claiming the release of detailed information on oil and gas pipelines could aid terrorists or troublemakers, Washington pipeline companies are appealing a judge's order that they disclose to the public specifics about their potentially explosive lines.

Meanwhile, the companies are asking the Legislature to change the Washington Public Records Act to allow the information to be kept secret - while claiming in court that the law already shields the records from disclosure.

The pipeline companies' renewed efforts to keep the information secret followed Thurston County Superior Court Judge Richard Hicks ruling Friday on their efforts to block disclosure.

"Over, and over again, they raise the specter of '9/11.' However, we need to have the courage to use that shocking lesson, and at the same time go on to live free and democratic lives," Hicks' ruling said. "Shall we refuse to publish ferry schedules because it would make it easier for insane terrorists to meet the boat at the dock and time an explosion?"

One of two people who first requested the information, reporter Sam Taylor of the Bellingham Herald, showed up early Monday morning to receive the data at the Olympia offices of the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, which regulates pipelines.

[flamingyouth]

1. Thanks for posting this.

I missed this yesterday. Important (yet not surprising) story.