TRAVERSE CITY (AP) — The Michigan Public Service Commission has some authority over Enbridge’s plans to build an oil pipeline tunnel beneath the channel that connects two of the Great Lakes, a state administrative law judge ruled Friday.

The agency can evaluate the need for the project and whether it would be designed, constructed and operated safely, Judge Dennis W. Mack said. But the commission should not delve into broader issues such as how the pipeline contributes to climate change, he added.

The split decision suggests the commission, which regulates public utilities such as electric power, telecommunications and natural gas services, might play a pivotal role in determining whether the project goes forward.

Enbridge also needs permits from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

“We look forward to working with the Michigan Public Service Commission,” company spokesman Ryan Duffy said.