Presidential Permit: Authorizing Junction Pipeline Company, LLC to Construct, Connect, Operate, and Maintain Pipeline Facilities at Toole County, Montana, at the International Boundary Between the United States and Canada

6/30/2025

Presidential Memoranda

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Action Summary

Authorization Granted: Presidential permit issued to Junction Pipeline Company, LLC to construct, connect, operate, and maintain border pipeline facilities at Toole County, Montana.
Facility Description: Permits a 30-inch diameter pipeline extending from the U.S.-Canada border to the first mainline shut-off valve/pumping station, including related land, structures, and equipment.
Scope of Permit: Allows importation of crude oil and various petroleum products (refined or unrefined) from Canada, excluding natural gas under the Natural Gas Act.
Compliance Requirements: Construction, connection, operation, and maintenance are subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including pipeline safety regulations.
Inspection and Reporting: Federal, state, and local agency representatives have unrestricted access for inspections; the permittee must provide reports and sworn statements as required.
Modification and Ownership: Any substantial changes or ownership transfers must be approved or communicated in writing to the President, with exceptions for throughput capacity adjustments.
Facility Removal and Government Control: Upon permit termination or for national security purposes, the permittee is responsible for removal at their expense; the government may take control with compensation provided for use and restoration.
Indemnification and Right-of-Way: The permittee must secure necessary easements/permits, indemnify the U.S. for liabilities (including environmental issues), and maintain the facilities in good repair.
No Enforceable Rights: The permit does not create any enforceable legal rights or benefits against the United States, its agencies, or officials.

Risks & Considerations

The authorization of the Junction Pipeline Company to construct and operate pipeline facilities at the U.S.-Canada border primarily impacts the energy sector. While this action does not directly affect Vanderbilt University, it could have indirect implications on research funding and partnerships related to energy and environmental studies.
Environmental concerns and regulatory compliance are significant factors in pipeline projects. Vanderbilt’s environmental science and policy programs may need to consider the broader implications of such projects on environmental regulations and sustainability efforts.
The Presidential permit includes conditions that require compliance with federal, state, and local laws, which could serve as a case study for Vanderbilt’s law and public policy programs, particularly in areas related to environmental law and energy policy.
There is a potential for increased scrutiny and public discourse around energy infrastructure projects, which could influence public opinion and policy-making. This may present opportunities for Vanderbilt to engage in research and dialogue on energy policy and its societal impacts.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s Environmental Science and Policy Program may find opportunities to study the environmental and regulatory aspects of cross-border energy projects, potentially influencing curriculum and research focus.
The Law School could explore the legal frameworks governing international energy infrastructure projects, providing students with real-world examples of regulatory compliance and environmental law.
Public Policy and Political Science Departments might analyze the political and economic implications of energy infrastructure decisions, contributing to broader discussions on energy independence and international relations.

Financial Impact

While the direct financial impact on Vanderbilt University is minimal, there could be indirect effects on research funding opportunities related to energy and environmental studies.
Potential partnerships with federal agencies or private sector entities involved in energy infrastructure could arise, offering new avenues for research funding and collaboration.
Changes in energy policy and infrastructure could influence the focus of grant applications and research initiatives, particularly in fields related to environmental science and energy policy.

Relevance Score: 2 (The order presents minor considerations for the university to address, primarily in research and academic discourse.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s Environmental and Energy Law Program should analyze the implications of the pipeline permit for environmental regulations and energy policy. This analysis can inform the university’s research agenda and policy recommendations, particularly in areas related to environmental law and sustainable energy practices.
The Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments related to the pipeline permit and engage with policymakers to understand potential impacts on federal and state energy policies. This engagement can help Vanderbilt anticipate changes in regulatory environments that may affect research funding and partnerships.
Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering could explore research opportunities related to pipeline safety and technology. By leveraging expertise in engineering and technology, the school can contribute to advancements in pipeline infrastructure and safety measures, potentially securing research grants and partnerships.
The Center for Environmental Management Studies should consider conducting studies on the environmental impact of pipeline projects. These studies can provide valuable insights into the ecological consequences of such infrastructure and inform public policy debates.

Opportunities

The pipeline permit presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Earth and Environmental Sciences Department to expand research on the environmental impacts of cross-border energy infrastructure. This research can enhance the department’s reputation and contribute to global discussions on sustainable energy practices.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the focus on energy infrastructure by developing interdisciplinary programs that combine engineering, environmental science, and public policy. These programs can prepare students for careers in energy policy and infrastructure management, aligning with national priorities.
The emphasis on pipeline safety and regulation offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Law School to engage in policy analysis and advocacy. By providing legal expertise and recommendations, the law school can influence regulatory frameworks and promote best practices in energy infrastructure.

Relevance Score: 3 (Some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures to align with potential changes in energy policy and infrastructure development.)

Average Relevance Score: 2.4

Timeline for Implementation

N/A – No explicit timeline or deadline is provided within the directive for the implementation of the outlined conditions.

Relevance Score: 1

Impacted Government Organizations

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), U.S. Department of Transportation: This agency is explicitly referenced as the administrator of pipeline safety laws and regulations, meaning it plays a central role in inspecting and ensuring compliance with the permit’s conditions.
Relevant Federal Agencies: The permit requires that representatives from appropriate federal agencies inspect the pipeline facilities, ensuring adherence to all applicable federal laws and standards.
State and Local Agencies (e.g., in Toole County, Montana): The permit mandates obtaining the necessary permits from state and local governmental entities and provides for their inspection authority over the construction and operation of the facilities.

Relevance Score: 2 (A limited number of key federal agencies, along with state and local bodies, are impacted by this directive.)

Responsible Officials

Junction Pipeline Company, LLC – As the permittee, it is responsible for constructing, connecting, operating, and maintaining the Border facilities in accordance with the conditions set forth in the permit.
Representatives of Appropriate Federal, State, and Local Agencies – Tasked with inspecting the Border facilities and enforcing compliance with pipeline safety laws and related regulations (including oversight by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration).
President or His Designee – Retains ultimate oversight, including the authority to approve changes, demand reports, and, if deemed necessary for national security, take possession or direct removal of the facilities.

Relevance Score: 4 (The directives require coordination across high-level oversight, including agency heads and presidential designees, reflecting significant national and regulatory impact.)