In a recent development in the ongoing battle over the Line 5 pipeline, an appeals court has upheld Michigan’s jurisdiction in the matter. The decision affirms the state’s ability to regulate the controversial pipeline, which runs under the Straits of Mackinac.
The case has been a point of contention for years, with environmentalists and residents voicing concerns about the potential risks posed by the aging pipeline. The pipeline, owned by Enbridge Energy, has been in operation for over 65 years and carries oil and natural gas liquids.
The court’s ruling strikes down arguments made by Enbridge, which claimed that the federal government had sole authority over interstate pipelines. However, the court disagreed, stating that Michigan has the right to regulate the pipeline under the Great Lakes Submerged Lands Act.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been a vocal critic of the Line 5 pipeline and has taken steps to shut it down. In November of 2020, she revoked Enbridge’s easement to operate the pipeline, giving them until May of 2021 to shut it down. Enbridge has since appealed the decision, leading to the recent ruling by the appeals court.
Environmental groups and indigenous communities have applauded the court’s decision, citing the potential environmental risks posed by the pipeline. They argue that a spill in the Great Lakes would be catastrophic, impacting the region’s ecosystem and economy.
Despite the court’s ruling, the legal battle over Line 5 is far from over. Enbridge has indicated its intention to continue fighting to keep the pipeline operational, setting the stage for further legal proceedings in the future.
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