Providing for Consideration of S.1., Keystone XL Pipeline Approval Act, and Providing for Proceedings During the Period from February 16, 2015, Through February 23, 2015

Floor Speech

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Mr. VEASEY. I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding me the
time.

Madam Speaker, I want to talk about the rule. I am rising today
against the rule. And although I believe that a pipeline is absolutely
the most safest and environmentally conscious way that we can transport
natural resources through North America--and natural resources, for
that matter, that are going to be developed. It doesn't matter what the
carrier ultimately is; these are resources that will be developed. But
the underlying rule, much like the prior rules we have seen on any of
the Keystone pipeline votes, does not allow for Member debate. It
doesn't. It doesn't allow for Member debate, and that is not how we can
best move forward. Only by having an open discussion can this body
fully engage in creating sound public policy.

I want to give you an example of what I am talking about. I offered
an amendment in the Rules Committee which said that if the Keystone
pipeline is built, we would maximize the amount of American jobs that
are created or sustained in this process.

My amendment would ensure that the iron, steel, and manufactured
goods made in the construction of the Keystone pipeline and facilities
are made here in America. If we are going to build the pipeline in
America, let's make the materials in America. That will create more
jobs. That will give people more opportunity.

There has been much discussion about how we have lost so many
manufacturing jobs in this country, about how we have lost ground in
that area, about how people can't take care of their families because
these opportunities are no longer here. If we are going to build this
pipeline, let's give people the opportunity to go back to work, roll up
their sleeves, and let's build these in America. There is no reason to
have materials made in China to build this pipeline.

Therefore, I believe that if Republicans want to follow a jobs-
focused agenda, the amendment that I am offering will make sure that we
keep Americans working and not workers in China.

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