On Wednesday, June 28, 2018, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) voted unanimously to approve a certificate of need for the Line 3 Replacement Pipeline in Northern Minnesota. The pipeline was ordered to be replaced during the Obama Administration, and a study done by the University of Minnesota Duluth estimates the project will bring $2 billion in direct and related spending to our state and create 8,600 jobs.
“The PUC’s decision yesterday to grant Enbridge’s project the certificate of need can be viewed with great optimism by the residents of Greater Minnesota, as it marks one of the final hurdles that the project will face. The proposed project has long had the approval of residents of Northern Minnesota and will provide a boost to the regional economy, bringing good-paying jobs, property tax revenue and enhanced environmental protections,” said Senator Mark Johnson, R- East Grand Forks.
“Today, folks across Northern Minnesota are celebrating that after years of runarounds, roadblocks and unnecessary delays, Line 3 has finally been granted a certificate of need by the PUC,” said Rep. Dan Fabian, R-Roseau. “This pipeline will use the latest technology and will be much safer and better for the environment, as well as provide a significant boost to our economy. Line 3 is a win for everyone.”
While the certificate of need was approved, additional action was taken to determine some conditions for the certificate, and conditions to the route with alterations in the Big Sandy Lake region in Aitkin and Carlton counties. Earlier this session, Rep. Fabian authored House File 3759, legislation that would have granted a certificate of need and route approval for Line 3. The bill, which passed the Legislature and also had strong support from Sen. Johnson, was vetoed by Governor Dayton. Rep. Fabian also has been a strong advocate for reforms at the PUC, championing legislation that would give more balanced and rural representation on the commission.
“The PUC has seen there is a real need for Line 3 in Minnesota, and I want to thank them for that. Now, we must remain steadfast and do what’s best for our state. I remain hopeful that cooler heads prevail and we allow this project to move forward,” concluded Rep. Fabian.
