BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The leader of the Standing Rock Sioux and an attorney for private North Dakota landowners believe the builder of the Dakota Access pipeline got off too lightly when it settled allegations by state regulators that it violated rules during construction.

North Dakota's Public Service Commission, which could have fined Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners hundreds of thousands of dollars but didn't, has defended the agreement, saying its provisions are more meaningful than a fine. ETP says the agreement proves the company is a good corporate citizen.

The PSC last year accused...