Supreme Court to Hear Uinta Railway Case

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a pivotal case concerning a proposed 88-mile railway in Utah that aims to transport crude oil, a project contested by environmental groups and local governments due to potential environmental impacts. The case centers on whether federal agencies are required to evaluate environmental effects beyond the immediate project area under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Proponents argue that the railway will facilitate economic growth and expedite permitting processes, while opponents, including Colorado officials, warn of increased pollution and risks to the Colorado River and public health. The D.C. Circuit Court previously ruled that the Surface Transportation Board failed to adequately assess the potential harms, prompting the current appeal. The outcome could either uphold extensive environmental reviews or limit their scope, affecting various future projects. A decision is expected by June 2024.