The Keystone XL article by Jehmal Hudson describes the complexity of permitting, routing, and building an oil pipeline to bring new energy resources across our northern plains. The article on the American Tax Payer Relief Act by Section Council Group members David Hardy and Marty Pugh describes some of the complex, though short-term, incentives for renewable energy resources that found their way into the last-minute 2012 “fiscal cliff” legislation. But the article also explains the lack of agreement on how to “fairly” tax individuals and corporations. Thanks to Jehmal, David, and Marty for helping us understand these complex topics.

There are many important policy debates to be had, and important interests to be considered and weighed in Washington, D.C., and our state capitals. The political process must facilitate a rational discourse on the risks and rewards, benefits and costs, of different policy objectives. But then the legislators and regulators must reach consensus and make decisions. Our infrastructure industries need clear and consistent laws and regulations before they can plan and finance new infrastructure projects.