Obama vetoes Keystone bill

Making good on a threat issued weeks ago, President Barack Obama today vetoed a bill authorizing construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.

It was the first time in four years Obama has had to use his veto power. Until this year, Democratic lawmakers have had enough votes to block any legislation that didn’t meet the president’s approval.

The Keystone bill was a top priority for Republicans and had some bipartisan support. Democrats from energy-dependent states backed the $8 billion project supporters say will create jobs, bolster America’s energy independence from oil producers in the Middle East, and spur economic growth. The pipeline, as proposed, would bring oil from Canada’s tar sands to refineries on the Texas Gulf Coast. Because it would cross the U.S. border, the pipeline needs the federal government’s approval.

Obama has long waffled on the project, citing concern about its environmental impacts. He has said he wants to hear the results of a government investigation before making up his mind on the issue.

“The presidential power to veto legislation is one I take seriously,” Obama said in a brief notice delivered to the Senate. “But I also take seriously my responsibility to the American people.”

Last year, the Environmental Protection Agency said the pipeline would not significantly increase U.S. carbon emissions because Canada’s oil fields will be developed one way or another. But the agency said earlier this month that calculation might be different now that oil prices have dropped so significantly.

While opponents say the pipeline presents an environmental risk in the event of a leak, its supporters note the current delivery method for oil from the site—truck and train—is much more risky. In the last month, two trains carrying crude oil have derailed, causing massive explosions but no injuries.

The Keystone bill now goes back to Capitol Hill for another vote, but GOP leaders say they don’t have enough support to override Obama’s veto. They’re four votes short in the Senate and 11 in the House.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.