Story perspectives

Judge Blocks Whitmer's Efforts to Shut Down Line 5

12/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker blocked Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Governor, from shutting down Line 5 beneath the Straits of Mackinac, citing the Pipeline Safety Act of 1992 and that only the federal government may regulate interstate pipeline safety.
Whitmer's 2020 order aimed to revoke the easement for the 72-year-old Line 5 pipeline due to environmental concerns.
Enbridge, the pipeline's operator, faces multiple legal challenges over safety and environmental impact.

History

Historical Context

The Pipeline Safety Act of 1992 established federal oversight of interstate pipeline safety, prompted by rising concerns after the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill. This legislation laid the groundwork for ongoing regulatory frameworks, including those affecting the Line 5 pipeline. Governor Gretchen Whitmer's recent attempts to shut down Line 5 highlight the ongoing conflict between state environmental policies and federal regulations, emphasizing the complexities of energy infrastructure management.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker blocked Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Governor, from shutting down Line 5 beneath the Straits of Mackinac, citing the Pipeline Safety Act of 1992 and that only the federal government may regulate interstate pipeline safety.
Whitmer's 2020 order aimed to revoke the easement for the 72-year-old Line 5 pipeline due to environmental concerns.
Enbridge, the pipeline's operator, faces multiple legal challenges over safety and environmental impact.

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