Utah’s Oil Train: A Supreme Court Case with Environmental Impacts

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments about Utah’s oil train project on December 10. The railway could transport crude oil from Utah to Gulf Coast refineries, sparking economic and environmental debates. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Utah’s Oil Train: Economic Growth or Environmental Risk?

The U.S. Supreme Court is preparing to review Utah’s proposed Uinta Basin Railway project, which could reshape federal environmental reviews. The case, scheduled for December 10, revolves around an 88-mile railway extension that would connect Utah’s oil-rich region to Colorado, aiming to transport crude oil to Gulf Coast refineries. Proponents argue the project could boost Utah’s economy, while critics cite environmental and community concerns.

The project’s approval faced setbacks after the D.C. Circuit Court ruled that its environmental review was incomplete. Critics argued the review failed to assess wildfire risks, water pollution, and other ecological threats. In response, the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition appealed to the Supreme Court, asking for clarity on the scope of risks federal law requires reviewing.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox and several Republican senators, including Mitch McConnell and Ted Cruz, support the railway. They emphasize its economic benefits, highlighting its potential to transport up to 350,000 barrels of oil daily. Greg Miles, a Duchesne County Commissioner, believes the project could diversify Utah’s economy and strengthen the nation’s energy independence. “We’re proud of our contribution to America’s prosperity,” he stated.