ST. PAUL, MN –Senate Republicans members released the following statements congratulating Enbridge on completing the replacement of Line 3 with a newer, safer pipeline.
Senate Majority Leader Jeremy Miller (R- Winona):
This project has provided good paying jobs for hundreds of Minnesotans, and they should be proud of their efforts as the pipeline is completed. I applaud Enbridge for its efforts to keep jobs in Minnesotan, keep the environment safe, and provide this crucial infrastructure for Minnesota’s future.
Deputy Majority Leader Mark Johnson (R- East Grand Forks):
The construction of the Line 3 pipeline is good news for Northern Minnesota schools, counties, communities, and for our entire state. Building critical infrastructure that improves safety and reliability has always been a clear choice. Line 3 supports our communities, creates high-paying jobs, and helps protect our environment. Transporting energy by the old pipeline or rail is not as safe. Northern Minnesota has had some challenges over the past couple of years, but today is a step forward. I thank all the men and women who worked around the clock to get Line 3 built.
Senator Justin Eichorn (R-Grand Rapids):
The completion of the Line 3 pipeline is a huge win for the people of Northern Minnesota. Line 3 protects our environment, creates good-paying jobs, and invests in our region. This project has been a huge undertaking and I’d like to thank all of those who have worked tirelessly to get Line 3 done.”
Senator Paul Utke (R- Park Rapids):
I’m glad to see the important Line 3 Replacement project finally nearing its completion. The science has repeatedly supported the safety and merits of this endeavor, and we have already seen benefits to our communities, businesses, and economies. I would like to specifically thank the workers that made this project possible, and all law enforcement personnel that worked towards maintaining peace at the project sites.
Senators Johnson, Eichorn, and Utke represent some of the communities along Line 3.
Senator Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake):
I am glad Line 3 construction is finally finished. The pipeline is important to Minnesota’s energy future by improving safety and reliability. Line 3 is clear evidence that you can protect the environment while also creating good-paying jobs.
Senator Julia Coleman (R- Chanhassen):
I’m pleased to see the Line 3 Pipeline finally reach completion in northern Minnesota! This project has created many jobs for Minnesotans while overcoming obstacles with extreme protests throughout the construction. Updating outdated infrastructure is always a necessity and that’s exactly what’s been done with this pipeline.
Senator Paul Gazelka (R-East Gull Lake):
Phenomenal news for communities across Northern Minnesota. Enbridge’s Line 3 replacement pipeline was rigorously reviewed for years before it was approved to move ahead. Not only did its construction provide jobs, but its operation will drive important tax revenue that our region desperately needs. Communities and the environment will also be safer now as transportation of oil shifts from an aging line to one that is new and state the art with all the latest safety technology. This is a win for Minnesota.
Senator John Jasinski (R-Faribault):
Line 3 is of critical importance to the future of our state. It will help us move oil much, much safer, and provide an economic boost for an area of the state that badly needs it. Congratulations to everyone involved. This is terrific news for Minnesota.
Senator Mary Kiffmeyer (R-Big Lake):
We take safety seriously in Minnesota, which is why we worked hard for seven years to update aging infrastructure on the Line 3 Pipeline. The pipeline is essential to life in the Midwest and I’m pleased to see the hard work of Minnesotans paying off. Minnesotans rely on energy suppliers not only for our cold winters and extreme summers, but for our health and safety. Line 3 has followed all of the environmental safety standards to update seriously outdated infrastructure. Modern improvements such as drones and sensors monitoring desolate areas will fix many problems, keeping the pipeline running strong and safely for years to come.
Senator Andrew Mathews (R-Milaca):
After 7 long years of construction, the Line 3 Pipeline is finally finished. This necessary update to old infrastructure will safely bring oil from Canada to the Midwest. Thank you to all the Minnesotans who helped to overcome the obstacles and make our state safer.
Senator Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson):
Great news. Congratulations to Enbridge and everyone involved who worked so hard to get us here. Line 3 becoming operational is crucial to Minnesota’s future.