California Challenges Federal Approval of Offshore Oil Pipeline Restarts
California has initiated legal proceedings against the federal government following its approval of plans by Sable Offshore Corp., a Texas-based company, to recommence operations of two oil pipelines off the state’s coast. This move intensifies the ongoing dispute over the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce regulations on offshore oil drilling. The pipelines, which traverse Santa Barbara and Kern counties, have been a contentious issue since they were damaged in a 2015 oil spill.
California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, emphasized the state’s jurisdiction over these pipelines, stating, “The federal administration has no right to usurp California’s regulatory authority.” During a news conference, he asserted the state’s commitment to safeguarding its coastline and communities from potential pipeline hazards by taking the matter to court.
The U.S. Transportation Department’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, however, defended its decision, arguing that restarting the Las Flores Pipeline is crucial for supplying much-needed American energy to California, a state known for its high gas prices.
Sable Offshore Corp. has not yet issued a response regarding the lawsuit.
The controversy is rooted in a broader policy shift initiated by President Donald Trump, who, after taking office for a second term, overturned former President Joe Biden’s ban on offshore oil drilling along the East and West coasts. This move was later challenged in court, with a federal judge nullifying Biden’s attempt to withdraw 625 million acres of federal waters from oil development.
Despite backing from the oil industry, plans for new offshore drilling near California and Florida have faced criticism from those concerned about potential environmental impacts. One significant point of contention is that one of the pipelines slated for restart was responsible for a catastrophic oil spill in 2015, which released over 140,000 gallons of oil along Southern California’s coast. The incident severely impacted marine habitats and local industries.
In the aftermath of the spill, offshore drilling platforms were shut down, yet Sable has remained determined to resume production. The company has indicated willingness to focus on federal waters, where state oversight is limited. The platforms in question are located between 5 to 9 miles offshore, beyond the 3-mile jurisdiction of California.
Environmental advocates remain staunchly opposed. Alex Katz of the Environmental Defense Center voiced disbelief at the prospect of restarting these pipelines given past environmental disasters. California Assemblymember Gregg Hart also criticized the federal government’s approval, arguing it disregards lessons learned from the 2015 spill.
In line with its broader environmental goals, California has been progressively reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, with Santa Barbara County taking steps to phase out onshore oil and gas operations, underscoring the state’s shift towards clean energy initiatives.
