Washington, D.C. – Today the U.S. State Department extended the comment period for the Keystone XL Pipeline project. The State Department indicated “uncertainty created by the on-going litigation in the Nebraska Supreme Court” as a reason for additional time. Over 2,000 days ago TransCanada submitted its initial application for approval of the pipeline to run from Hardisty, Alberta to an existing pipeline near Steele City, Nebraska. The pipeline would be able to move up to 830,000 barrels of oil per day, including 100,000 barrels from the Bakken region, and provide approximately 20,000 direct jobs.
“The decision to further delay the most thoroughly studied pipeline in history is a clear example of how inept this president is. Although I am not surprised with this announcement, I am somewhat shocked the President is suddenly interested in States’ rights. With unrest in the Middle East and Eastern Europe and an anemic jobless economic recovery in our own country, one would think President Obama would want the jobs and energy security the Keystone XL Pipeline will bring.
Once again our president is proving he lives in a fantasy world where Hollywood stars play serious policy advisors and he plays king. Since America is stuck with President Obama for nearly three more years it is time for the United States Senate to follow the House and pass the Northern Route Approval Act.
The time for talking is over. It is time for leaders to lead! It is incumbent upon energy state Democrat Senators to demand Harry Reid call a vote on our bill.”
The Northern Route Approval Act, cosponsored by Cramer and passed by the House of Representatives in May 2013, would approve the project and allow construction to move forward. It has yet to be considered in the Senate.
Press release provided by US Congressman Kevin Cramer
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