Haley Stevens: “on June 20, 1977--30 years ago to this day--oil began flowing through the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. This event…”

“on June 20, 1977--30 years ago to this day--oil began flowing through the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. This event represents an important milestone in Alaska's history and a watershed moment in our struggle to secure America's energy independence. My distinguished colleague from Alaska, Senator Lisa Murkowski, spoke at length about the history of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline before we adjourned last night. As she so vividly illustrated, its creation was a monumental undertaking which required the hard work of countless individuals. During the long political fight to allow this important project to proceed, members of the environmental lobby claimed the pipeline would devastate Alaska. History has proven these critics wrong--responsible development and attentive stewardship have ensured the continued protection of our State's wildlife and lands. Even after the Arab oil embargo in 1973, the Senate remained closely divided on this matter. In fact, a tie vote on the authorizing legislation was not broken until Vice President Spiro Agnew cast the decisive vote in its favor. My own vote on that bill still ranks as one of the most memorable I have ever cast.”