The United States Supreme Court today lifted restrictions on submarine training excercises off the California coast. A lower court had imposed restrictions because of concerns that sonar noise frequencies were harmful to marine life. However, in a 5-4 decision the Court ruled that the nation’s national security interests outweighed environmental concerns.
Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts said, “The Court does not question the importance of plaintiffs’ ecological, scientific and recreational interests, but it concludes that the balance of equities and consideration of the overall public interest tip strongly in favor of the Navy.”
