WASHINGTON, D.C.— Karen Harbert, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber’s Energy Institute, today issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s visit to Cushing, Oklahoma where he discussed the southern section of the Keystone XL Pipeline:
“A photo-op in front of a pipeline storage yard doesn’t change the more than three years of missed opportunities on oil and gas. While half a pipeline is better than no pipeline, the American people should not be fooled into thinking anything has changed with this administration’s energy policy.
“The southern section of the pipeline that the president expressed support for today does not require his approval. However, it is noteworthy that the president recognizes the need for the administration to cut through its own red tape to get energy projects of all kinds built in a reasonable timeframe.
“The entire Keystone XL pipeline is needed. The full pipeline will bring oil from Canada, North Dakota and Montana to refineries in the South. It is time for this administration to do its part and allow access to new lands as well as the infrastructure necessary to supply our energy needs and to enhance our nation’s energy security.
“At a time of soaring fuel prices, the American people rightfully want to know why we are not taking advantage of the substantial oil and gas resources we have. Over the past three years, we’ve seen fewer leases issued on and offshore, more lands taken off the table for future development, and no action to begin accessing our vast shale resources. It is time to put policy ahead of politics and move forward with projects such as Keystone, which will help lead us toward a more secure energy future.”
The mission of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for 21st Century Energy is to unify policymakers, regulators, business leaders, and the American public behind a common sense energy strategy to help keep America secure, prosperous, and clean. Through policy development, education, and advocacy, the Institute is building support for meaningful action at the local, state, national, and international levels.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.