House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Rep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.) called for President Obama to approve the Keystone XL oil pipeline on Friday following the release of a State Department report on the project’s environmental impact.
The southern portion of the Keystone XL pipeline, the Gulf Coast Project, recently began pumping oil. The northern portion, however, requires a presidential permit because it would cross an international border and has been in regulatory limbo for more than five years.
“Finally, after months of unexplained delays, the State Department has issued its fifth and final environmental report on the Keystone XL pipeline,” Upton said. “It confirms there is no reason to oppose the project and clears the way for the president’s approval.”
The project is in the nation’s best interest, but the administration has “creatively” extended its review process for more than 1,960 days, Upton said.
“This project enjoys widespread support from Republicans and Democrats as well as job creators and American workers, and will bring thousands of jobs and greater energy security to America without jeopardizing safety or the environment,” Upton said. “To kick off his ‘year of action,’ President Obama should use his pen and approve the permit without any further delay. After enduring over five years of review, there is absolutely no reason to keep the American people waiting another day.”
House Energy and Power Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-Ky.) and House Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Lee Terry (R-Neb.) joined Upton’s call for the president to take action.