WNDU - Rep. Walorski Applauds Passage of Keystone XL Pipeline Bill, Awaits Possible Veto

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The Republican-controlled Congress has cleared a bill approving the construction of the Keystone XL oil pipeline. That sets up a confrontation with President Barack Obama, who has threatened to veto the measure.

The House voted 270-152 on Wednesday to send the bill to the president. Neither chamber has enough votes to overcome a veto.

The vote caps weeks of debate on a top priority for Congress after the GOP took control last month. Supporters are already planning on using other means to secure the pipeline's approval.

First proposed in 2008, the Keystone XL pipeline would connect Canada's tar sands to Gulf Coast refineries.

Republicans argued it was a jobs bill that would boost energy security. Democrats said it was a gift to the oil industry that would worsen global warming.

"Both the House and the Senate overwhelmingly supported a measure to put more Americans back to work and move our country towards energy independence," said Rep. Jackie Walorski (IN-02) in a written statement. "I hope the president seizes this opportunity to create thousands of jobs for American workers and strengthen our local economies."

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