(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after cosponsoring the Energizing America through Employment Act. The bipartisan bill will allow for construction to begin on the Keystone XL pipeline: 

“This bipartisan legislation unites supporters of the Keystone XL pipeline across both aisles of the House and the Senate. It reinforces Congress’s right to regulate commerce with foreign nations as set forth by the Constitution. The bill clarifies key language and provides significant oversight of the State Department while allowing for construction to begin on the Keystone XL pipeline.

“American families across the country will immediately benefit from the 20,000 direct jobs created by completing this pipeline. American businesses including refineries on the Gulf Coast will benefit greatly from this pipeline. Our nation’s energy security will be enhanced by acquiring a reliable energy source. This legislation allows for common sense to solve two of the toughest problems facing our country: high national unemployment and increasing energy demand. I support this bill and look forward to voting in favor of it on the House floor.”   

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Boustany is Louisiana’s leading voice for American energy production. By fighting the Obama moratorium on coastal drilling and exploration coupled with supporting increased domestic energy production, Boustany remains South Louisiana’s staunchest advocate for energy independence on Capitol Hill. He continues to fight for a speedy resumption of permits to the Gulf Coast to boost energy production and lower the price of gas for Americans.