U.S. President Barack Obama opposes a bill in the House of Representatives that would quicken approval of the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada to Texas. According to the White House, the bill "seeks to circumvent longstanding and proven processes" by removing a requirement for a presidential permit. The legislation also says no new environmental studies are needed. House Republicans contend that the bill is needed to ensure the long-delayed pipeline is built. The project, which was proposed in 2008, would carry oil extracted from tar sands in western Canada to refineries along the Texas Gulf Coast. Opponents say the pipeline would carry "dirty oil" that could trigger global warming, while supporters say it would create jobs and bolster North American energy resources. A House vote is expected Wednesday.
