By Scout Nelson
North Dakota has secured nearly $38 million in federal reimbursements connected to costs incurred during the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protests that took place in 2016 and 2017. State officials announced a final settlement requiring the federal government to repay $27.8 million, adding to the $10 million previously recovered.
The settlement helps offset expenses that North Dakota taxpayers covered during months of protest activity near the pipeline project. State leaders said the reimbursement recognizes the significant costs associated with maintaining public safety, emergency services, and cleanup efforts throughout the demonstrations.
Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak welcomed the agreement and highlighted the importance of the Dakota Access Pipeline to North Dakota’s economy, energy sector, and national energy security.
“The Dakota Access Pipeline was legally permitted, has operated safely for nearly a decade, and remains critical to North Dakota’s economy, energy industry, and America’s energy security. More than 30 hours of public hearings were held with input from hundreds of people. Yet, for more than 230 days, North Dakota communities, law enforcement officers, and taxpayers carried the burden of responding to unlawful activity while the federal government failed to act responsibly on federal land,” Fedorchak said.
She also praised Attorney General Drew Wrigley, former Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem, local officials, and law enforcement agencies for their efforts during and after the protests.
“The people of North Dakota should never have been left footing the bill for the Obama administration’s failure to enforce the law during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. I’m grateful to Attorney General Drew Wrigley, late Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem, and the law enforcement officers and local officials who stood up for our communities,” stated Fedorchak.
The protest response lasted more than 230 days, and involved 178 response agencies across several counties. During that time, law enforcement officials made 761 arrests, including 709 involving individuals from outside North Dakota.
State officials noted that the demonstrations resulted in millions of dollars in law enforcement, emergency response, and environmental cleanup costs. The reimbursement is expected to reduce the financial impact on taxpayers.
In addition, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently finalized the Record of Decision for the Dakota Access Pipeline, providing greater certainty for continued pipeline operations in North Dakota.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fertnig
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy