Barrow Keystone Pipeline Legislation Passes Energy and Commerce Committee

Press Release

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce (E&C) today approved bipartisan legislation co-authored by Congressman John Barrow (GA-12) to expedite approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline. Congressman Barrow co-authored the legislation with members of the E&C Committee led by Congressman Lee Terry (R-Neb.). The legislation, H.R. 3, clears the roadblocks preventing construction of the pipeline.

"Construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline will put us on a path to energy independence and reduce our dependence on foreign oil from countries like Venezuela," said Congressman Barrow. "This bipartisan legislation removes the barriers preventing its completion. This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that will have a positive impact on folks in Georgia and across the country. I look forward to beginning the floor debate on this legislation, and working to ensure its final passage."

The Keystone XL pipeline is a $7 billion jobs and energy infrastructure project that has been tied up in regulatory review for over four years. Earlier this year, the State Department released its draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS), which found that the pipeline, including the revised Nebraska route, would have limited adverse environmental impacts. This review follows the State Department's initial analysis that lasted for more than three years and found the pipeline to be environmentally sound.

In May 2012, Congressman Barrow authored, and the House passed, a Motion to Instruct conferees on the Transportation and Infrastructure Reauthorization Bill. The motion insisted upon approval of the pipeline and passed the House with a bipartisan vote of 261 to 152.

Congressman Barrow's bipartisan bill passed the E&C Committee today by a vote of 30-18. The full debate in the House is expected to take place before Memorial Day.

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