The U.S. Supreme Court denied Michigan’s appeal on April 7 in the ongoing legal dispute with Enbridge Energy over the Line 5 pipeline, ending the state’s challenge regarding state sovereignty in the case.
The decision is significant because it addresses questions about states’ rights and control over infrastructure projects that cross sovereign lands. The court did not provide an explanation for its denial.
Attorney General Press Secretary Danny Wimmer said, “We are disappointed by the Supreme Court’s decision not to review this important issue of state sovereignty. We will continue to fight for the people of Michigan on these vital issues concerning the Line 5 pipelines in the Straits.” Enbridge responded with a statement noting that a federal appellate court had previously affirmed a decision declining immunity, saying it “made clear that Enbridge’s suit falls within the exception to sovereign immunity.” The state acknowledged that Enbridge agreed there was no reason for further review.
Enbridge spokesperson Ryan Duffy said, “Line 5 is operating in accordance with federal law, interstate commerce regulations and international treaty obligations. These frameworks recognize the essential role Line 5 plays in meeting the energy needs of the Great Lakes region and supporting its economic vitality.”
Michigan originally granted an easement to Enbridge in 1953 to build and operate pipelines under Straits of Mackinac bottomlands, but Governor Gretchen Whitmer revoked this easement in November 2020. Following this action, Enbridge sued Whitmer in federal court. In April 2025, a U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals panel ruled that Enbridge’s lawsuit could proceed due to an exception to sovereign immunity.
In December, U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker determined Michigan could not close Line 5 because pipeline safety falls under federal jurisdiction and said Michigan “lacks the power to interfere.” Another lawsuit brought by Attorney General Dana Nessel remains pending before the Supreme Court; arguments were heard in February regarding whether her case should be tried at federal or state level.
The Small Business Association of Michigan aimed to lead advocacy efforts for small businesses across Michigan according to its official website. Brian Calley serves as president and CEO of SBAM according to SBAM. The organization operates statewide as a nonprofit advocacy entity focused on small business interests according to SBAM, providing support such as membership services, insurance options, and resources for small businesses according to SBAM.
