Scott Opposes Latest Attempt to Force Approval of Keystone XL Pipeline

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott issued the following statement on his opposition to H.R. 5682, the latest attempt by House Republicans to force an approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline:

"Proponents of the Keystone XL Pipeline argue that it will move our nation closer to energy independence by reducing our reliance on foreign oil, but they fail to recognize reality. Last year, the United States produced more oil domestically than was imported and gas prices are, and are expected to remain, near lows not seen in years. Even if this were not the case, much of the tar sands oil that would run through this new pipeline will not be sold in the United States but will instead pass through our nation for eventual sale on international markets.

"Additionally, the bill voted on today exempts TransCanada Corp and any other company that produces, ships or refines tar sands oil from paying into the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund – even though conventional crude oil companies are required to pay 8 cents per barrel into the trust fund to help the federal government respond to oil spills.

"Cleanup from a 2010 tar sands oil spill in Kalamazoo, Michigan is estimated to cost over $1 billion and, even four years after the spill, the cleanup is still ongoing. Incidents like this have led many landowners along and near the proposed pipeline to oppose construction.

"Finally, the long term economic benefits of this pipeline do not add up. While there will be some temporary construction jobs, the total number of permanent jobs associated with this project is estimated to be approximately 35. The negligible economic benefit from the Keystone XL Pipeline does not justify risking America's drinking water, farmlands, and tribal grounds. I hope instead of exempting corporations from federal permitting requirements that Congress can work to ensure that our nation can become greener and more energy efficient."

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