Upton: Quicker pipeline reviews needed

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- Draft legislation introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives would facilitate the review of cross-border pipeline projects, Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., said.

A permit for the Keystone XL oil pipeline planned by Canadian energy company TransCanada was submitted to the U.S. State Department for review in 2008. The section of the pipeline crossing the U.S-Canadian border needs federal approval.

Supporters of the project, like Upton, say five years is too long to wait for a project its supporters say would ensure North American energy security and provide a source of economic stimulus.

"This bipartisan legislation will restore certainty and ensure future cross-border energy projects are reviewed and approved in a reasonable manner," he said in a statement Wednesday.

He drafted the legislation with Rep. Gene Green, D-Texas.

Keystone XL foes say a pipeline designed to carry so-called oil sands comes with too many risks. Oil sands are viewed as more corrosive and more carbon-intensive to produce than other grades.

Adam Kolton, executive director of advocacy at the National Wildlife Federation, said he was frustrated House leaders inserted pro-Keystone XL legislation in a budget measure designed to end a government shutdown.

"This debt ceiling plan is a polluter wish list of favors too unpopular and politically toxic to pass on their own," he said in a statement Wednesday.