The presidential veto pen could draw first ink in 2015 as leaders in the Republican-led House consider legislation in support of the Keystone XL oil pipeline.
A coalition of energy groups in the United States issued letters to the House of Representatives in support of legislation meant to advance the construction of the pipeline meant to cross the U.S.-Canadian border.
James P. Hoffa, president of the powerful Teamsters Union, said building the pipeline would bring net benefits to the United States.
"If the pipeline is not built, important socio-economic benefits will not be realized," his letter reads.
The House takes up a Senate bill sponsored by Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., to build the pipeline. Hoeven said in a late Tuesday statement the White House needs to get in line behind what he said was growing support for the pipeline.
"The president needs to work with Congress in a bipartisan way and approve the Keystone XL pipeline project for the American people," he said.
An executive order mandates the State Department to consider the pipeline against national interests. White House spokesman Josh Earnest has said President Barack Obama would veto any measure meant to get around the normal vetting procedures.
The bill under consideration doesn't have enough support to overcome a veto.
