Authoritative Authorization Augments Anglo-American Energy Exchange

In a significant administrative move dated June 30, 2025, President Donald J. Trump has granted a Presidential permit to Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC. This permit authorizes the company to operate and maintain existing pipeline facilities at the international boundary between the United States and Canada, specifically in Burke County, North Dakota. The permission underscores the importance of cross-border infrastructure facilitating the export of natural gas liquids, excluding natural gas itself under the Natural Gas Act.

Jurisdictional Jargon Justifies Judicial Judiciousness

The permit meticulously outlines the scope of the authorized facilities, defining “Facilities” as the United States portion of the international pipeline project, inclusive of all land, structures, and installations associated. The “Border facilities” pertain to an 8.625-inch diameter pipeline extending from the international border to the first mainline valve or pumping station within the United States. This precise delineation ensures clarity in regulatory compliance and operational accountability under the auspices of the President.

Stringent Stipulations Safeguard Sovereign Standards

The Presidential permit is contingent upon a series of conditions reinforcing federal, state, and local regulatory oversight. Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC must maintain the pipeline facilities in compliance with all relevant laws, including pipeline safety regulations administered by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration of the Department of Transportation. The permittee is obligated to secure all necessary permits from governmental entities and submit to inspections ensuring operational integrity and public safety.

Contingent Conditions Confer Compliance & Contingency

The permit explicitly restricts any substantial alterations to the Border facilities without prior presidential approval, save for permissible adjustments to throughput capacity and directional flow within operational parameters. This controlled flexibility allows the pipeline operator to optimize efficiency while preserving the integrity and intent of the authorized infrastructure. The careful balance of adaptability and oversight exemplifies prudent regulatory governance.

Presidential Prerogatives Preserve Public Protection & Possession

An additional clause empowers the President to assume possession and control of the Border facilities if national security necessitates such intervention. This extraordinary measure, while exceptional, affirms the primacy of safeguarding United States interests. The permit guarantees just and fair compensation to the permittee should such federal commandeering occur, including restoration of facilities and recognition of improvements made during governmental control.

Ownership Oversight Obligates Open Operations

Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC must notify the President immediately of any transfer in ownership, control, or name changes, ensuring transparency and continued regulatory supervision. The permit remains binding notwithstanding such changes, maintaining a consistent framework of legal and operational responsibility. Furthermore, the permittee assumes indemnity for any environmental liabilities, including contamination arising from pipeline activities, reinforcing environmental stewardship.

Maintenance Mandates Mitigate Material Malfeasance

The permit stipulates that Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC is responsible for maintaining all facilities in good repair and in compliance with applicable laws. Reporting obligations to the President and relevant agencies are obligatory, ensuring continuous monitoring and documentation of pipeline status and operations. This requirement fosters accountability and promotes safety throughout the pipeline’s lifecycle.

Procedural Provisions Promote Public Purpose & Prevent Privilege

The permit clarifies that it does not create enforceable legal rights or benefits for third parties against the United States government. This caveat underscores the administrative nature of the permit and confines its application to the parties directly involved. It reflects a measured approach to federal authorization, balancing operational facilitation with sovereign prerogatives.

Key Takeaways:

• President Donald J. Trump authorizes Steel Reef US Pipelines LLC to operate pipeline facilities exporting natural gas liquids at the US-Canada border in Burke County, North Dakota.

• The permit mandates strict compliance with federal safety regulations, environmental indemnity, and operational transparency, including presidential oversight and the ability to assume control for national security.

• Ownership changes must be promptly reported, and the permit emphasizes maintenance, inspection, and reporting to ensure continuous safe operation.