Supporting the Keystone Pipeline

Statement

Today, Congressman Doug Lamborn voted in favor or H.R. 3, the Keystone XL Pipeline Act. The bill passed by a bipartisan vote of 266 to 153 and heads to the Senate for consideration early next week.

"The Keystone XL pipeline has been pending for more than six years and it is long past time to begin this project that is supported by the majority of Americans. The delay threatens job creation, economic growth, and our relationship with Canada, our closest ally and trading partner.

The Keystone XL pipeline will provide significant economic and national security benefits for the country. By bringing an extra 830,000 barrels of oil per day to U.S. refineries, the pipeline would create American jobs and enhance our national security by reducing U.S. reliance on energy resources from less stable regions. Continued volatility in those regions only reinforces the urgent need to tap into new energy sources and the Keystone XL pipeline is a safe, secure way to ensure the nation's long-term energy security.

During the project's construction, the Keystone XL pipeline would support more than 42,000 jobs across the country, translating to $2 billion in earnings for workers and contribute approximately $3.4 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Additionally, many state and local governments will see the benefit of significant tax revenues as a result of the increased economic activity. Following the project's completion, the Keystone XL pipeline operations will continue to employ American workers and most counties will see property tax revenue increase of 10 percent directly benefiting local communities.

I look forward to the new leadership in the Senate considering this bill and sending it to President Obama's desk for his decision. For six years the President has made excuses to avoid supporting this legislation. With today's decision by the Nebraska court system removing barriers to construction of the pipeline, the President has no more excuses."

Source