WKSU News: New coalition aims to raise awareness on the benefit of natural gas pipelines in Ohio and Michigan

Thursday, October 29, 2015 New coalition aims to raise awareness on the benefit of natural gas pipelines in Ohio and Michigan The Coalition for the Expansion of Pipeline Infrastructure is made up of businesses, trade groups and labor unions in Ohio and Michigan by WKSU's LAUREN BLUE	Reporter Lauren Blue

Willoughby says the goal of the group is to better inform the public on how the pipelines could benefit the state.

Courtesy of the Ohio Lobbying Association

A new joint effort by Ohio and Michigan businesses, labor unions and trade groups is promoting support for natural gas pipelines in the two states.

In Ohio, the Coalition for the Expansion of Pipeline Infrastructure consists of groups such as the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, the Ohio Manufacturers' Association and the Ohio Hotel and Lodging Association.

The coalition’s formation comes when two major pipelines are seeking approval from the federal government to carry natural gas from Ohio to Michigan.

Charles Willoughby of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce says the goal of the group is to better inform the public on how the pipelines could benefit the state.

LISTEN: Willoughby on the coalition

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“The goal of the group is to broaden the amount of information and understanding about the natural gas pipelines that are being developed in Ohio," said Willoughby. "To try and educate the public and advocate for the economic development opportunities that come along with a supply chain around new natural gas and all energy infrastructure.”

If approved, the pipelines would cross through portions of Stark, Summit, Medina and Wayne counties.