Crapo, Risch Support Keystone XL Pipeline

Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch voted with the minority today to support construction of the long-delayed Keystone XL pipeline.  The Senate vote of 59 to 41 to reject approval of the pipeline carrying Canadian oil to the southern U.S.   The Senate vote followed a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives to approve the project.

"If eventually approved, the Keystone project will provide a significant economic boost to our country, creating thousands of jobs and providing needed tax revenue to states along its route," Crapo said.  "When completed, the project will also help North America increase its energy security by reducing reliance on foreign resources from volatile countries and regions around the globe.  The Administration's own State Department has confirmed that the development of this resource should have no meaningful impact on the environment and is the safest way to transport the oil." 

"The Keystone XL pipeline is the kind of project America really needs," said Risch.   "It would employ thousands of workers and be paid for by the private sector, rather than our tax dollars. This vote is long overdue and I am disappointed that Democrats have  blocked this project, using government power to once again frustrate the creation of jobs in the private sector."

Following today's vote, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced he expects to bring the Keystone XL Pipeline back for consideration early in the next Congress.