California oil pipeline can continue to operate, judge rules

A judge in California has ruled that a coastal oil pipeline can continue to operate, despite objections from state regulators and environmental groups. The Sable Offshore Corporation pipeline, located off the coast of Santa Barbara, resumed operations earlier this year, following orders from President Donald Trump. The pipeline had been idle since 2015, after an oil spill caused by a burst pipe was considered one of California's worst.

California had sought to halt the pipeline's operation, describing the company's actions as an "egregious trespass on public land" that would cause significant harm. The Trump administration invoked the Defense Production Act, which grants the president authority over industries in times of national defense, and the company argued that the federal government's directive superseded state regulations.

U.S. District Judge Stephen Wilson ruled this week that the pipelines can remain in operation, shifting oversight to federal authorities. Wilson also imposed a fine of $1.5 million on Sable for violating a consent decree without proper authorization or court approval. The pipeline, which was bought by Sable from ExxonMobile in 2024, was seeking to restart offshore oil production for over a year.

The Trump administration's move was aimed at addressing supply disruption risks caused by California policies, and was intended to improve the U.S. oil supply and support national security. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright argued that the pipeline's reopening would be vital to the country's energy security. However, California's Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision, accusing the Trump administration of using the crisis to open up California's coast for the benefit of his oil industry allies.

Newsom's office stated that the state would continue to fight against what they perceive as interference with their sovereign authority. The case has been ongoing in the courts for several months.