Lewis Blasts MPCA for Yet Again Delaying Line 3

June 5, 2020

EAGAN, Minn. — U.S. Senate candidate Jason Lewis released the following statement after the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency announced they will be holding a contested case hearing on a water quality permit for the Enbridge Line 3 pipeline replacement project.

“Yet another unnecessary delay for Enbridge Line 3 thanks to the urban elites in St. Paul. As Northern Minnesota is struggling due to overreaching COVID lockdowns, now more than ever is the time for significant infrastructure projects. Line 3, a $2.6 billion project, would create 8,600 project-related jobs and an estimated $19 million in additional property tax revenue. Not to mention replacing the 50-year-old corroded pipeline is crucial for protecting our environment by allowing the safe delivery of crude oil and energy to Minnesota communities. There is no reason this project should continue to face roadblocks.

As Jason George, the Business Manager for International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, said in a statement, ‘No more excuses, no more politics – Minnesota’s elected officials from both sides of the aisle need to quit playing games and do something to get this economy going again.’ I couldn’t agree more. Our leaders, including Senator Tina Smith, need to put their foot down on the continued delays for Line 3. Our economy and our environment depend on it.”

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