"Senate to Debate Keystone XL, Setting Stage for More Energy Battles"

"WASHINGTON — The Senate voted Monday to take up a bill that would force approval of the Keystone XL pipeline, opening a debate on energy and climate change that will preview other clashes to come between President Obama and the new Republican Congress. It will also set the stage for the energy and climate battles of the presidential election next year.

But the bill’s fate appears certain: Republicans, with the help of some Democrats, are expected to easily push it through Congress, and Mr. Obama is expected to veto it.

The floor debate, which is scheduled to play out in the next two to three weeks, will serve as a showcase for various energy and environmental issues and is expected to involve votes on the science of climate change and humanity’s role in causing it, as well as on a proposal to lift a 42-year-old ban on exporting crude oil."

Coral Davenport reports for the New York Times January 12, 2015.

SEE ALSO:

"Senate Takes Up Keystone Xl Bill as Showdown With Obama Looms" (Reuters)

"Keystone XL Could Face New Lawsuit From Nebraska Ranchers" (Guardian)

"It's Open Season for Keystone Amendments, but Big Issues May Stay Dormant" (National Journal)

"Democrats Plan Tough Votes For GOP on Keystone Pipeline Bill" (The Hill)

"Senate Keystone Debate To Delve Into Climate, Oil Exports" (Politico)

"Drop in Oil Prices Could Give Obama An Excuse To Reject Keystone XL" (Toronto Globe and Mail)

"With Oil And Gasoline Prices Lower, Is Keystone XL Pipeline Needed?" (AP)