(Washington, D.C.) Montana's senior U.S. Senator Max Baucus is criticizing the Obama Administration for delaying a final decision on the Keystone Pipeline XL until 2013. Baucus, who has long argued that the process for approving the pipeline must include strict environmental considerations and proper public input, says sufficient analysis has been done.

"Montana jobs and our energy security are on the line here and I will not stand by and watch more bureaucratic red tape dictate our energy policy.  Montana families and communities have been waiting too long for the jobs and energy security Keystone XL will provide to our state and our nation.  We've done enough analysis.  It's time to put Montanans back to work." Baucus said.

Additional Background:

While Baucus has been a supporter of making sure the Keystone pipeline project is not subject to unncessary red tape he has also fought to make sure the environmental and safety concerns along with greater opportunities for public comment remain cornerstones of the process. Baucus is urging Montanans to share their views on the Keystone XL Pipeline with the State Department.

Contact: Kate Downen 406-224-5056/Kathy Weber 406-329-7980/Jennifer Donohue 202-224-2651

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