California oil pipeline can continue to operate, judge rules
State sought to stop system off coast of Santa Barbara from resuming operations after Trump ordered its reopening
TL;DR
- A judge has ruled that an oil pipeline off the California coast can continue to operate.
- The Trump administration ordered the pipeline's reopening, citing US energy needs and national security.
- California state regulators and environmental groups opposed the pipeline's operation due to environmental concerns and a previous oil spill.
- The judge ruled that the Defense Production Act order from the federal government preempts state laws conflicting with the pipeline's operation.
- The operating company was fined $1.5 million for violating a consent decree without proper authorization.