Bud Shuster: “I just want to reiterate the numerous benefits this project will bring to our country, including jobs, energy security…”

“I just want to reiterate the numerous benefits this project will bring to our country, including jobs, energy security, safety, efficiency, and I would argue that more supplies of oil generally drive prices down, not up. First, this pipeline safety, it is officially moved through this country safely. It is the safest way to move these products. There have been numerous additional mitigation measures. The State Department said it will reduce the risk of release. Second, the State Department has explained this project will create over 40,000 jobs, over $3 billion in construction contracts. Finally, as I said, from sourcing more crude oil from our friendly neighbor in the north, it will reduce our reliance and most likely reduce the cost of energy to the American people. For these reasons, Mr. Speaker, I encourage all of our Members to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.”