"Enbridge has deliberately caused years of delay through procedural tactics, attempting to block Michigan courts from deciding a critical issue that directly impacts its residents," Nessel said. "Line 5 has long been operating in the Straits on an invalid easement, posing a significant threat to the people of this state and our environment. After more than five years, I’m glad we finally had this opportunity to present our case on behalf of the People of Michigan and our Great Lakes in state court."
Judge Jamo previously agreed with Attorney General Nessel that Line 5 needed to be temporarily shut down after being struck by anchors or similar objects, and the court ordered a temporary shut down in the summer of 2020. After Enbridge sought to remove the case to federal court, the Attorney General successfully argued before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals that the case belongs in Michigan state court.
At the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Jamo took the matter under advisement and indicated that the Court will issue a written opinion.*
* Editor's Note: For more details, including arguments from Enbridge, see also the Jan. 28, 2025, WEMU article, "Ingham County judge hears Michigan Attorney General challenge to Enbridge Line 5," by Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio. (Thanks to FLOW -- For Love of Water -- for this update.)
