Central ND News

BISMARCK, N.D. - U.S. Federal Judge Daniel Traynor has rejected the federal government's motion for summary judgment in North Dakota's lawsuit seeking damages from the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protests. The state is looking to receive $38 million to cover its emergency response costs resulting from the federal government's negligence during the protests.

Senator John Hoeven, who secured $10 million in 2017 to help reimburse the state, expressed his support for Judge Traynor's decision. He stated, "The federal government's refusal to enforce the law and properly police illegal activity occurring on federal lands during the DAPL protests resulted in significant costs to the state, above and beyond the $10 million that we secured to reimburse these expenses."

Hoeven emphasized the importance of accountability for federal officials who neglected their responsibilities during the protests. He said, "We appreciate Judge Traynor's continued insistence that the lawsuit be allowed to proceed, helping to ensure accountability for federal officials who neglected their responsibilities during these protests."

Senator Hoeven has been actively working to provide certainty for DAPL's operations, which are crucial to North Dakota and the Three Affiliated Tribes' energy industry. He has been urging U.S. Army Corps officials to expedite the completion of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process. The draft EIS was issued in September, and Hoeven has been advocating for a swift review.

Additionally, Hoeven has been instrumental in ensuring the continued operation of the DAPL while the Corps completes the court-ordered review.

The rejection of the federal government's motion for summary judgment is seen as a positive development for North Dakota's lawsuit. With Judge Traynor's order, the lawsuit can proceed, allowing the state to seek the $38 million in damages it believes it is owed for the costs incurred during the DAPL protests.

The DAPL protests, which took place in 2016, garnered national attention and were marked by clashes between law enforcement and protesters. The protests centered around concerns about the potential environmental impact of the pipeline and its impact on Native American lands.

North Dakota's lawsuit aims to hold the federal government accountable for its alleged negligence during the protests. The state argues that the federal government's failure to enforce the law and properly police the illegal activity on federal lands led to substantial costs for North Dakota.

The next steps in the lawsuit will involve presenting evidence and arguments to support the state's claim for damages. The outcome of the case will determine whether North Dakota will receive the $38 million it seeks.

As the legal proceedings continue, Senator Hoeven remains committed to ensuring the accountability of federal officials and the protection of North Dakota's interests in the energy sector.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-judges-order-ensuring-north-dakotas-dapl-protest-damages-lawsuit-can-proceed