Key facts
- A federal judge ruled that a controversial oil pipeline off the California coast can continue to operate.
A federal judge has ruled that a controversial oil pipeline off the California coast can continue to operate, overriding state regulators' objections. The decision comes after the Trump administration invoked the Defense Production Act to order the pipeline's reopening, citing national energy needs.
The ruling allows a controversial oil pipeline, previously shut down due to a major spill, to continue operating despite state environmental concerns, highlighting a conflict between federal energy policy and state-level environmental protection efforts.
A controversial oil pipeline off the California coast has been granted permission to continue operating by a federal judge, despite opposition from state regulators and environmental groups. The pipeline, located off Santa Barbara, resumed operations earlier this year after being ordered to reopen by the Trump administration, which cited U.S. energy needs during the war in Iran.
The pipeline had been closed since 2015 following a significant oil spill, one of California's worst. California officials had argued against Sable Offshore Corporation's operations, describing them as an "egregious trespass on public land" that would cause irreparable harm. However, the Trump administration invoked the Defense Production Act (DPA), asserting federal authority over industries for national defense purposes, and argued that this directive superseded state regulations.
Judge Stephen Wilson ruled this week that the pipelines can remain operational, transferring oversight to federal authorities. He stated that the DPA Order preempts state laws that conflict with the pipeline's operation, including trespass claims. In his ruling, Wilson also imposed a $1.5 million fine on Sable for violating a consent decree without proper authorization.
Sable Offshore Corporation purchased the pipeline from ExxonMobil in 2024 and had been seeking to restart offshore oil production for over a year. The Trump administration's intervention in March used emergency powers under the DPA to address "supply disruption risks." U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright contended that restoring the system would enhance U.S. oil supply and is "vital to our national security and defense."
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision, linking Trump's Middle East policies to surging gas prices and accusing him of using the situation to benefit his "oil industry friends." The matter has been subject to legal proceedings for several months.