WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) issued the following statement today regarding the Obama Administration’s rejection of the Keystone XL permit application:

“Our country cannot afford to further delay long-term energy security,” Sen. Moran said. “The Obama Administration has already spent three years reviewing the Keystone XL permit and conducting two comprehensive environmental evaluations of the project. Furthermore, the Canadian government has made it clear they will pursue other markets if this project cannot be completed. If we allow this opportunity to pass us by, America will take a step backwards in energy security, as we are forced to continue to rely on unstable nations for our energy needs.

“Today’s announcement does not bring an end to this story. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to clear the unnecessary hurdles, so this vitally important project can move forward, create tens of thousands of jobs and help our country obtain greater energy security.”

The completed 1,700 mile Keystone XL pipeline would transport 700,000 barrels of oil per day from Canada and the U.S. Bakken region to U.S. refineries and create thousands of new jobs without adding to the national debt. Canada’s oil sands are among the largest oil reserves in the world. As global demand for oil surges and Canada increases production, the addition of the Keystone XL pipeline will make certain Americans will benefit from reliable and secure oil from our largest trading partner. Additionally, TransCanada – the Canadian Keystone XL pipeline developer – is required to adhere to local, state and federal law, protect the environment, and respect the rights of landowners as construction goes forward.

The $7 billion pipeline’s projected cost to be paid by the Keystone XL consortium will fund nearly half a billion dollars in salaries and purchase $6.5 billion worth of materials and services – spurring significant local economic activity at no cost to the taxpayer. Trade with Canada will also accelerate America’s independence from oil imported from overseas.

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