Casey wants vote on Keystone pipeline to clear way for other issues

A federal lawmaker from Pennsylvania wants to finish deliberations on a major issue so Congress can tackle other national matters.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey said there should be debate on the Keystone XL Pipeline proposal that, if completed, would carry nearly a million barrels of petroleum daily from Canada to the Gulf Coast. But it should be done quickly, he said.

“I think we need to get this done and move on because the country faces issues that are much bigger and, frankly, much more significant that this one,” Casey said Tuesday during a conference call with reporters.

Casey said he is scrutinizing the bill closely.

“Not just the issue more broadly but on amendments that will be considered,” he said. “I’ll be taking a close look at all of those. There may be ways to improve on where things are right now.”

Tax reform job creation and infrastructure improvements are more important and need to be addressed immediately, Casey said.