Fast-tracked Keystone XL bill may finally get vote
by Dina Cappiello, The Associated Press
The votes offer a preview of what's to come on energy and environmental issues as Republicans solidify control of Congress
WASHINGTON—The Republican-controlled House is on track to easily pass a bill to approve the Keystone XL oil pipeline. But this time, the Senate may follow.
The bill marks the ninth attempt by the House to secure pipeline approval. Republicans hope the timing will give Louisiana Republican Rep. Bill Cassidy an edge over Sen. Mary Landrieu in a runoff race.
The Senate, at Landrieu’s urging, plans to vote next week. The White House says it takes a “dim view” of being forced to make a decision it has said would be based on whether the pipeline worsens global warming.
The votes offer a preview of what is to come on energy and environmental issues when Republicans take over the Senate next year, solidifying their control of Congress.
