Houston Chronicle
Letters: Keystone XL pipeline decision
January 21, 2012
http://www.chron.com/opinion/letters/article/Letters-Keystone-XL-pipelin...

Wrong decision

Regarding "Obama rejects Keystone permit" (Page A1, Thursday), to say President Obama's decision to nix the Keystone XL pipeline was wrong is an understatement.

By rejecting the pipeline, the administration robs workers of jobs and ensures the U.S. remains dependent on foreign oil from hostile sources.

Rejecting the pipeline is a blow to Texas on a number of fronts. Keystone XL pipeline would create thousands of new manufacturing, energy and service-sector jobs. The pipeline would also contribute a significant stream of revenue for the state at a time when budgets remain tight.

Washington should be looking to advance policy that creates jobs and encourages private investment in energy and infrastructure, not stifle it. For working families, the completion of the Keystone XL pipeline would enhance our nation's energy security, bring the U.S. safe energy from a reliable trading partner and create jobs across the state and the nation.

Fred Shannon, chairman, Texas Association of Manufacturers