House Approves The Keystone XL Pipeline: Montana Delegation Responds

On Wednesday the US House approved the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, 270-152. The Bill has already passed the Senate, leaving President Obama 10 days to veto, if he should so choose to do.

The following statement is from Rep. Ryan Zinke:

“There is no doubt the Keystone XL Pipeline is the right move for Montana and America: It creates jobs, increases American energy security and helps break America’s addiction to foreign oil—all while being environmentally safe. Yet due to political reasons, President Obama has stonewalled its construction for six years.

“Multiple studies, including those by the Obama Administration, have found the Keystone to be a safe and environmentally responsible form of transport, and an economic engine for the region. I commend Senator Steve Daines for leading the fight in the Senate to build bipartisan support amongst his colleagues, just as we were able to do in the House. I urge President Obama to side with Montana and the American people and sign the Keystone XL Pipeline Approval Act.”

The following statement is from Sen Jon Tester:

"The Keystone pipeline will make our nation more energy secure and it will create jobs in Montana. I urge President Obama to sign the bill into law. But Keystone is not the only solution for our energy future. We must step up our work to make cleaner energy alternatives a larger part of our nation's energy strategy."

The following statement is from Sen. Steve Daines:

“President Obama is out of excuses. It’s time for him to join the American people and approve construction of the Keystone XL pipeline,” Daines stated.“The Keystone pipeline will create new opportunities for good-paying jobs, energy independence, lower energy prices and millions of dollars in tax revenue for Montana counties. This project is good for national security and our global competitiveness. Montanans have been waiting long enough – it’s time we break ground and start construction on this pipeline.”