Dakota Access Still Faces Existential Threats Despite Court Win

The Dakota Access oil pipeline faces continued threats to its existence, even after surviving another shutdown battle in federal court.

It’s familiar territory for the embattled Energy Transfer LP project that seems perpetually unable to shake off legal and political hazards. A federal district court last week refused to halt the oil pipeline—an important win for Dakota Access—but an appeal or agency action could change its fate.

“I would still hold my breath,” said James Coleman, an energy law professor at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. “If you’re a pipeline investor, you’re used to holding your breath at this point.” ...