WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Rep. Jessyn Farrell’s statement on Canada’s approval of the Trans Mountain Pipeline

Rep. Jessyn Farrell, D-Seattle, released the following statement after the Canadian government approved the expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline yesterday.

“Washington state should be very concerned about Canada’s approval of the Trans Mountain Pipeline, which will almost triple the amount of tar sand oil transported from Alberta to near Vancouver, BC.

“This increase means more tanker traffic in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and near Puget Sound. Unfortunately, we have no say in this decision, which could drastically impact the San Juan Islands and shorelines throughout the northern Sound. 

“Two years ago I sponsored the Oil Transportation Safety Act to improve our preparedness in the event of an accident. However, it’s clear we must do more this session to ensure we have the tools and resources to minimize the potential consequences of oil tanker spills given Canada’s pipeline decision.”