Talking Points: Gas Prices, Keystone Pipeline
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- As gas prices continue to drop, the debate over building the Keystone Pipeline is heating up.
Supporters say the pipeline will help keep prices low. But critics warn the pipeline could actually increase prices in our region and will only lead to few permanent jobs.
Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill to authorize the Keystone Pipeline. The pipeline would carry 830,000 barrels of oil per day from Canada's oil sands to Gulf Coast refineries.
The U.S. Senate is expected to approve the pipeline next week, but President Barack Obama is promising a veto.
While support for Keystone is split largely along party lines, three Minnesota House Democrats -- Tim Walz, Colin Peterson and Rick Nolan -- joined the Republican majority in voting for the pipeline.
Supporters say the Keystone would create 40,000 construction jobs, would keep domestic gas prices low and provide a safe alternative to rail transportation.
"This is much more efficient, it is safer for our communities to move it by pipeline rather than by rail, and it's better for the environment," said Republican Rep. Erik Paulsen, who was a guest on WCCO Sunday Morning. "So for six years the project has been delayed, it's time to move forward."
But critics warn the Keystone could mean higher prices for our region, because the pipeline would bypass refineries here by shipping oil directly to the Gulf Coast.
As for jobs, critics say only 50 permanent jobs will be created.
At this point, it appears opponents have the upper hand. Republicans don't have big enough majorities in either the House or the Senate to override a presidential veto.
To see the full interview with Rep. Erik Paulsen, watch the video above.
