Keystone XL pipeline will be first item on Senate’s agenda: McConnell

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WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) — The Keystone XL oil pipeline will be the first item on the Senate’s agenda when the chamber convenes next year, said Sen. Mitch McConnell, the incoming majority leader, on Tuesday.

In November, the Senate narrowly rejected a bill that would have approved construction of the long-delayed TransCanada Corp. TRP, +1.36% pipeline. Next year, with Republicans in charge of the Senate and House, the odds are better for passage.

Approval by both chambers of Congress wouldn’t ensure Keystone gets built, though. In November, a White House spokesman said President Barack Obama did not support the legislation. But the administration did not issue an explicit veto threat.

The pipeline would carry oil from Canada’s oil sands to refineries on the U.S. Gulf Coast. It has been under review for more than six years and is awaiting a final decision from the State Department.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/keystone-xl-pipeline-will-be-first-item-on-senates-agenda-mcconnell-2014-12-16?link=MW_home_latest_news