The House of Representatives narrowly passed a $1.15 trillion defense bill Monday that includes a controversial amendment allowing the Trump administration to seize California-owned land for an oil pipeline. The measure, introduced by Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas), passed by a razor-thin vote of 216-212, sparking an uproar among Democrats.
The Hunt Amendment empowers the Army secretary to acquire permanent easements along the Santa Ynez Pipeline System. This acquisition can be done through purchase, donation, exchange, or condemnation, specifically including properties owned by the state of California and its agencies. The federal government is authorized to use eminent domain if the Defense secretary deems it necessary to ensure the continuous transportation of crude oil from the Santa Ynez Unit to domestic refineries that supply Department of Defense installations in California.
California Democrats vehemently criticized the amendment. Rep. Salud Carbajal stated that the measure is about "giving Big Oil special treatment at the expense of California." The amendment's inclusion follows reports that Texas-based Sable Offshore had requested the Trump administration use eminent domain to seize properties on its behalf, as part of a proposed West Coast Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
Despite seven House Republicans voting against it, the bill's passage is seen as a victory for President Trump and the House GOP. The legislation now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to face significant opposition from Democrats.
