API: Keystone XL Delay Shows Lack of Leadership on Energy

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Apr 18, 2014, 03:14 ET

WASHINGTON, April 18, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The White House move to further the delay a decision on the Keystone XL pipeline after almost six years of exhaustive review is not in our national interest and Congress should act, API President and CEO Jack Gerard said today.

"It's a sad day for America's workers when politics trumps job creating policy at the White House," said Gerard. "After nearly six years of review, repeated research on the pipeline's benefits to economic security and job growth, numerous studies confirming no significant environmental impacts, with the backing of organized labor, and poll after poll showing the support of American voters – if the White House lacks the political leadership to make a decision, we call on Congress to represent the will of the people and act.

"Strong majorities in the House and the Senate have publicly called for Keystone XL's approval. Now they have a chance to show the voters they are ready to put job creation, economic growth, and our country's energy security first.

"It's ironic that Vice President Biden is promoting pipeline development in response to the Ukrainian crisis, while the administration cannot make a decision on one of our own."

API represents all segments of America's oil and natural gas industry. Its more than 600 members produce, process, and distribute most of the nation's energy. The industry also supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy.

SOURCE American Petroleum Institute