Presidential Permit Authorizing Steel Reef Us Pipelines Llc To Operate And Maintain Pipeline Facilities At Burke County, North Dakota, At The International Boundary Between The United States And Canada
Summary
This document is a Presidential Permit issued to Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC, authorizing the operation and maintenance of existing pipeline facilities at the United States-Canada border in Burke County, North Dakota. The permit allows for the export of natural gas liquids from the United States to Canada. It outlines specific conditions and regulations governing the operation, maintenance, and potential changes to the pipeline facilities.
Expected Effects
The permit enables Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC to continue operating its existing pipeline for exporting natural gas liquids to Canada. This action formalizes the legal framework for the pipeline's operation, subject to ongoing regulatory oversight. The permit also specifies conditions regarding potential changes to the facilities, safety standards, and the possibility of government intervention in cases of national security concerns.
Potential Benefits
- Continued operation of the pipeline could support economic activity related to natural gas liquids.
- The permit mandates adherence to safety regulations, potentially reducing environmental and safety risks.
- The agreement promotes energy trade between the United States and Canada.
- The permit includes provisions for inspection and oversight by federal, state, and local agencies.
- The permit clarifies the responsibilities and liabilities of the permittee.
Potential Disadvantages
- The permit focuses on natural gas liquids, potentially overlooking broader energy policy considerations.
- Environmental risks associated with pipeline operation, such as leaks or spills, remain a concern.
- The permit grants the President broad authority to take possession of the facilities in the event of a national security concern, potentially impacting the company's operations.
- The document does not explicitly address potential impacts on local communities or landowners.
- The permit's focus on an existing pipeline may not incentivize investment in new or more sustainable energy infrastructure.
Constitutional Alignment
The Presidential Permit aligns with the President's executive authority to conduct foreign affairs and regulate international commerce. While the Constitution does not explicitly mention pipelines, Article II grants the President broad executive power. The permit's provisions for national security also resonate with the President's role as Commander-in-Chief. However, the lack of specific congressional authorization could raise questions about the separation of powers, as Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).