Lance: Only President Obama Is Blocking Keystone

Press Release

Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) today voted in favor of H.R. 3, the "Keystone XL Pipeline Act," bipartisan legislation that will bolster the Nation's energy security and create jobs.

"It is past time to build the Keystone Pipeline. Six years of this debate has resulted in strong support from the American people, backing from business groups and labor unions alike, affirmation from the courts, overwhelming support in the House and soon the Senate," said Lance after the vote. "Boosting American-made energy results in more American jobs and improved international relations. This is a winning combination for our Nation's economy, our national security and a centerpiece in our relationship with our ally, Canada."

Today's passage marks the tenth time the House has voted to authorize the pipeline in four years, and the third time in six months. But unlike previous years, the bill will be sent to a Senate that is under Republican control -- and that has made approving the project priority No. 1. The Senate is expected to take up a Keystone bill next week. And hours before the congressional vote, Nebraska's highest court dismissed a lawsuit challenging the proposed route for the Keystone XL oil pipeline, in a major victory for pipeline supporters that fueled congressional efforts to approve the project.

"As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee I have seen first-hand the benefits of building the Keystone XL project. Numerous studies from the President's own U.S. State Department outline some of the benefits that would come with the project, including more than 42,000 direct and indirect jobs including 3,900 construction jobs, and an estimated $3.4 billion boost to the economy. And despite two thorough environmental analyses showing that the proposed Keystone XL pipeline would have a minimal impact on the environment, President Obama's Administration continues to block this important American-made energy project," said Lance.

In addition to the Keystone Pipeline legislation, the first week of the new Congress also saw bipartisan bills passed to repeal ObamaCare's 30-hour workweek, help small businesses hire more of our veterans, and renew the federal terrorism risk insurance program that protects the businesses and services Americans rely on every day.

"Legislation backing Keystone and American-made energy as well as the other measures passed this week are just the first of many jobs bills the House will be advancing as we continue our commitment to strengthening our economy. It is my hope that the Senate and President Obama will follow suit," concluded Lance.

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