The Inspector General at the State Department will investigate the Obama administration's handling of the controversial Keystone XL Pipeline.

According to news reports, the review focuses on two issues. The first is the company that TransCanada hired to prepare the environmental impact statement for the project.

The company, Cardno Entrix, has a financial relationship with TransCanada, The New York Times reported. The EIS stated that the pipeline will have a "minimal" impact on the environment.

Cardno Entrix is handling a land-into-trust EIS for the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians, according to the company's website.

Another issue is the Obama administration's relationship with Paul Elliott, a lobbyist for TransCanada. Elliott worked for Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during her 2008 presidential campaign.

Get the Story:
Keystone XL Pipeline Decision to Be Investigated (The New York Times 11/8)
State Department inspector general will review pipeline permitting process (The Washington Post 11/8)

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