Watch CBS News

Trump Administration Approves Keystone XL Pipeline

WASHINGTON (CBSNewYork/AP) -- President Donald Trump says "it's a great day for American jobs'' after his administration issued a permit to build the long-delayed Keystone XL pipeline.

The decision marks a reversal from the Obama administration and clears the way for the $8 billion project to be completed.

The president says the decision ushers in a "new era'' of American energy policy and will reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil.

"Today, we prepare to do things right," Trump said.

Trump signed an executive order advancing advancing the pipeline back in January. The decision caps a years-long fight between environmental groups and energy industry advocates over the pipeline's fate.

It's one of several steps the administration is expected to take in the coming weeks to prioritize economic development over environmental concerns.

(© Copyright 2017 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.