Oil flows again through controversial California pipeline after Trump order

The Guardian US News
by Gloria Oladipo
March 17, 2026
3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Trump administration reopens California offshore pipeline closed since 2015 oil spill to boost U.S. oil production amid Iran tensions.

How This Affects You

Pipeline reopening may increase domestic oil supply, potentially affecting gas prices; environmental risks to California coastal waters remain from a system with spill history.

AI Summary

The Trump administration has ordered the reopening of a California offshore pipeline that has been closed since 2015 following a major oil spill, allowing oil to flow through the Santa Ynez unit and pipeline system for the first time in over a decade. The president cited the need to boost U.S. oil supply amid heightened tensions with Iran as justification for the move. Sable Offshore Corporation, the Houston-based owner, announced Monday that oil is now flowing and expects first sales by April 1. California state officials have opposed the reopening, citing environmental concerns and the pipeline's history of the catastrophic 2015 spill. The order reflects the Trump administration's broader push to increase domestic energy production and reduce reliance on foreign oil.

What's Being Done

Sable Offshore Corporation has resumed oil flow and expects first sales by April 1; California state officials continue opposing the reopening.

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