Bush, Cheney stick noses in Alaska gasline debate

6/30/06

Juneau, Alaska

The Bush administration is leaning on state lawmakers to pass Alaska's natural gas pipeline legislation.

In letters to the Alaska House and Senate, Vice President Dick Cheney urged prompt action during the upcoming special session.

"You have it in your hands to help ensure that the Alaska Gas Pipeline ultimately furnishes dependable, affordable, and environmentally sound energy for America's future," Cheney wrote in a letter, dated Tuesday June 27th.

The federal energy department said plans were in place to expedite the federal permitting process once a final contract is signed.

House Speaker John Harris, R-Valdez, said lawmakers also want to see the gas brought to market, but want to ensure Alaska gets a good deal.

"I think most of the senators and members of the House will probably look at that and say "That's nice, so glad they're thinking about us' and go on and do what we need to do for Alaskans".