With protests continuing to mount against the Dakota Access Pipeline, the Obama administration has decided to stop construction of the controversial project.

The Corps of Engineers announced Sunday it will not approve an easement that would allow the proposed Pipeline to cross under Lake Oahe in North Dakota.

The Assistant Secretary for Civil Works, Jo-Ellen Darcy says she based her decision on a need to explore alternate routes for the pipeline through an Environmental Impact Statement.

President-elect Donald Trump continues his search for key cabinet members this week, while lawmakers look to finish their work for the year by passing a stopgap spending bill to keep the government running into next year.

Trump met for two hours Friday with North Dakota Senator Heidi Heitkamp,amid speculation she could be a candidate for secretary of agriculture or another department.

But she issued a statement afterward that gave no indication a cabinet post was discussed.

 

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