BISMARCK, N.D. A federal judge ruled Wednesday that the U.S. government is liable to North Dakota for $28 million. The judgment stems from a lawsuit filed by the state seeking reimbursement for the costs of policing the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. The state argued that the federal government should help cover the expenses related to managing the large and sometimes volatile demonstrations.
The Dakota Access Pipeline, which transports crude oil through several states, became a focal point of environmental activism. Protests against the pipeline, particularly near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation, drew thousands of people and lasted for months. Law enforcement agencies from across North Dakota were deployed to maintain order and ensure public safety.
North Dakota officials claimed the protests strained state resources and created a significant financial burden. The lawsuit sought to recover costs associated with personnel, equipment, and other resources used to manage the protests. The federal government argued against liability, but the judge ultimately sided with North Dakota.
The ruling is expected to have broader implications for how the federal government addresses the costs of policing protests related to infrastructure projects. It could also influence future legal battles between states and the federal government over similar issues.
North Dakota Wins $28M Judgment Over Pipeline Protest Costs
A federal judge has ruled that the U.S. government must pay North Dakota nearly $28 million. This covers the state's costs for policing protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline. The lawsuit sought to recover expenses incurred managing the large-scale demonstrations. The judge's decision marks a significant victory for North Dakota in its effort to recoup funds spent on law enforcement during the protests.
Source: Read the original article at ABC