Keystone XL Pipeline ...

Related article ~ Senate leaders said Friday night, December 16, 2011, that they had reached a deal that would extend a payroll tax cut for two months. The agreement also would speed construction of an oil pipeline from Canada to the Gulf Coast — a provision necessary to win over Republicans who opposed the tax break . Link ~ Senate To Approve On Saturday ~ Senate Reaches Tentative Deal to Extend Payroll-Tax Cut by Two Months and Keystone XL Pipeline

December 2011

Keystone XL Pipeline

Keystone XL is a proposed $7 billion pipeline that would run nearly 2,000 miles to connect Canada’s oil sands to refineries around Houston and the Gulf of Mexico that are designed to handle heavy crude the sands produce.

It would be the longest oil pipeline outside of Russia and China, and has become a potent symbol in a growing fight that pits energy security against environmental risk. It would be able to carry more than half a million barrels a day.

The proposal requires President Obama’s approval because it crosses an international border.

The pipeline has generated intense opposition from environmentalists and public officials who claim that it threatens sensitive lands and underground water supplies along its route. Critics also say that the heavy oil extracted from sand formations in Canada will add to climate change and extend American dependence on fossil fuels. Its proponents say that the project would create thousands of jobs and lessen dependence on oil from unstable regions like the Middle East.

In November 2011, the Obama administration moved to delay a decision on the pipeline while it studies an alternate route, effectively pushing any action past the 2012 election.

The administration had been looking for ways to put off the question, fearing further alienation of environmental and health advocates, an important part of his political base, who consider the pipeline decision a test of the Obama administration’s commitment to clean energy and air quality.

In an interview prior to an announcement of the delay, Mr. Obama cited protection of the Nebraska aquifer and the health of the American people as considerations in his decision, but said that he would weigh domestic energy needs as a factor.

In December, House Republicansmade the pipeline a factor in the debate over extending a payroll tax cut.

Their bill included a provision to speed its construction — leading Mr. Obama to issue a veto threat.

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