Trump Expands Federal Power Over Energy Production Amid Sable Pipeline Dispute

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order expanding federal power over energy production under the Defense Production Act. The move, announced on September 14, grants the Interior and Energy secretaries authority to exercise the law when it comes to energy production and distribution.

The amended executive order affects disputes involving the Sable Offshore pipeline system on the Gaviota Coast. In March, Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright used this authority to direct Sable Offshore to help restart operations at the Santa Ynez pipeline system, citing a need to strengthen America's oil supply.

However, critics argue that the order could give other federal agencies more involvement in the Sable dispute, despite the lack of military defense contracts or requests for services from Sable. Linda Krop, Chief Counsel for the Environmental Defense Center, notes that 'Sable doesn't have any military defense contracts or requests for services.'

The executive order does not mention specific energy projects or override state law, but instead expands federal authority to include secretaries with the Department of Interior and Commerce.