Divided PUC Approves Dakota Access Pipeline

Dakota Access LLCThe South Dakota Public Utilities Commission approved a route application for the Dakota Access pipeline.  The pipe would transport crude oil from the Bakken fields in North Dakota across eastern South Dakota and Iowa to refineries in Illinois.  The vote to approve was two to one.  Commissioner Gary Hanson voted no…

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Hanson says the actions of Dakota Access caused him to vote against the application…

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State Treasurer Rich Sattgast sat in on the hearing as Commissioner Kristie Fiegen recused herself from the process. Sattgast says he was satisfied with what he heard…

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Commission Chairman Chris Nelson also voted in favor of the application, but did have a request of the company…

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Opponents have said they may take the decision to court.